Full text of "Historical data and life sketches of the deceased ministers of the Indiana Conference of the Evangelical Association, 1835 to 1915"

W¥^ 




^ JVi/iV9- 1045 

BR 1700 .B385 

Evangelical Church. Indiana 

Conference. 
Historical data and life 

sketches of the deceased 



Historical Data 



AND 




LIFE SKETCHES OF THE 
DECEASED MINISTERS 

OF THE 

Indiana Conference of the 
Evangelical Association 

1835 to 1915 



/ 

Compiled by S. H. BAUMGARTNER, Conf. Historian 
Edited by E. W. PRAETORIUS 

Published by the Indiana Conference, 1915 



Volume I 



PUBLISHING HOLSE OF IHK KVANGEIJCAI, ASSOCIATION 
CLEVELAND. OHIO C. HALSER, PUBLISHER 



Table of Contents. 



PAGE 

1. Authentic History Prior to the Organization of the Indiana Conference. 9 

2. Organization of the Indiana Conference and Territorial Extent 21 

3. Map of the Indiana Conference in 1902 Insert 24 - 25 

4. Photo of the Original Indiana Conference in 1852 

Photo of the Conference of 1865, with Brief History 25 

5. Missionary Operations and Expansion 27 

6. J^ew Missions, Stations and Circuits 32 

7. Conference Church Debt. Photo of Conference of 1901 37 

8. Semi-Centennial Anniversary 44 

9. Presiding Elders and Their Districts 50 

10. Presiding Elder Districts and the Elders That Have Served Them 51 

11. Ministers of the Conference and the Fields They Have Served 56 

12. Fields of Labor in the Conference and the Ministers That Served Them. 72 

13. Tablet of Our Living Ministers 96 

14. Experiences of Our Pioneer Preachers' Wives 99 

15. Tablet of Our Deceased Ministers 101 

10. Chronological List of Our Deceased Ministers 104 

17. Life Sketches of Our Deceased Ministers 106 

18. Articles of Incorporation of the Indiana Conference 319 

19. Business Eules of the Indiana Conference 321 

20. Miscellaneous Eules and Eegulations adopted by the Indiana Conference. 322 

21. Actions of the Indiana Conference Eelative to the College, Seminary 

and Endowment Fund 325 

22. Orphans ' Home and the Indiana Conference 329 

23. Church Extension and the Indiana Conference 331 

24. Camp-Meeting and Oakwood Park 332 

25. Conference Branch Young People 's Alliance 333 

26. District Meetings 334 

27. Conference Committees 335 

28. Preachers ' Salaries in Evolution 337 

29. Donations and Bequests 340 

30. Miscellany 344 

31. Eeminiscences 350 

32. General Conference Eesolutions 354 

33. Lay Delegation to Annual Conference 356 

34. Eegulations and Course cf Study for Junior Preachers 359 

35. Board of Examiners 363 

Si^i. Student Aid 363 

3 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

PAGET 

37. Formation of the Michigan Conference 368 

38. Formation of the South Indiana Conference, with Brief History 369 

39. Bishops that Presided at the Annual Conferences 377-378 

40. Tablet of the Annual Conferences 379 

41. Conference Officers 380 

42. General Conference Delegates 381 

43. Officers of the Indiana Conference Missionarj- Society and Delegates. . 383 

44. Societies from which Our Preachers Came 384 

45. Preachers Licensed by the Indiana Conference 387 

46. Preachers Received from Other Conferences, and Churches 390 

47. Preachers Ordained as Deacons 391 

48. Preachers Ordained as Elders 392 

49. Credentials Voted to Ministers by the Indiana Conference 394 

50. Errata 395- 



FOREWORD 

The writing of a history, such as this, is a vast and tedious 
undertaking. To portray accurately and impartially the begin- 
nings and progress of our Conference, in the face of meagerly- 
kept records, is surely a herculean task. Many and diverse have 
been the sources of our information, long and tedious the examina- 
tion of records and periodicals. Most of our data was extracted 
from the "History of the Evangelical Association," the CJiristliche 
Botschafter, the "Proceedings of the Various Sessions of the In- 
diana Conference," and the "Brief History and Life Sketches of 
the Indiana Conference by D. S. Oakes." 

The material for the life-sketches of our deceased brethren 
had to be gathered from friends and relatives, for, with very few 
exceptions, none of them left any diary. And those who did leave 
a full record of their lives, abbreviation was necessary. 

The task was greatly augmented by much translation that 
was necessary — all of the early records, both periodicals and Con- 
ference minutes, having been written in the German language. 

Your historian has deemed the writing of this work a great 
and sacred trust, and highly appreciates the confidence reposed 
in him. He has earnestly striven to be true to that trust. 

Special recognition is due those who have helped in any way 
to make this history possible. Especially would I mention my 
colleagues and the editor, who have greatly assisted in gathering, 
arranging and correcting the materials herein found. May this 
volume be a source of blessing and inspiration to all who read 
these pages ! Yours in the Master's service, 

S. H. BAUMGARTNER. 



AN APPRECIATION 

A great service has been rendered the Indiana Conference by 
our compiler in the preparation of this book. Invaluable data of 
the Conference has been brought together and so arranged as to 
be easily accessible. Amid the abounding duties of a presiding 
elder, our compiler has bestowed a super-amount of tedious labor 
upon this book, and has given us the best that time and strength 
would allow. It is, indeed, a "labor of love." 

To edit such a work is no small task, involving the assembling 
and condensing of some parts, the correcting of the whole, and 
the recopying of the major part. More time has been spent upon 
this work than a very busy and large pastorate will allow, and 
special thanks is due Elkhart First Church for their patience 
and leniency during these days. 

The perusal of these pages cannot but be beneficial to the 
laity and, especially, to the ministry of the Indiana Conference. 
It could, with profit, be inserted in the Course of Studies for Jun- 
ior Preachers of the Indiana Conference. 

Absolute accuracy is not claimed, nor even hoped for, in this, 
work, but an honest attempt has been made to attain it. 

E. W. PRAETORIUS, Editor. 



Authentic History Prior to the Organization of the 
Indiana Conference 

In reading the history of the Indiana Conference, we must 
trace the workings of the pioneers of the Evangelical Association, 
who labored within our bounds prior to our organization. We 
must also get some conception of the early condition of the coun- 
try and of the climate. 

The land was mostly low and marshy in the northern part, 
and somewhat undulating. In the central and southern portions 
lowlands were to be found, especially along the rivers and creeks. 
Treacherous quicksand marshes abounded, while the roads were 
nothing more than Indian trails. Dense forests, infested with 
wolves and bears, spread over the country, and often the thickets 
were impassable. Railroads were almost unheard of, the canals 
useless for circuiting, and the horse alone furnished means of 
travel. Bridges were very few, and fording was a necessary but 
exceeding dangerous procedure. The points that had to be reached 
were from twenty to forty miles apart. In the summer-time the 
air was laden with malarial fevers, to which our pioneers were 
not immune, but suffered with others untold chills and burnings. 

The settlements were far apart, the houses of the people very 
small and hardly fit to live in. The summer burnt itself through 
the poorly-constructed shacks, and the winter froze itself in. Min- 
isters were too often unwelcome guests, simply because the- people 
had no accommodations for entertaining them, and foodstuffs and 
provender were scarce. The "parson" was seldom invited. 

Moreover, cleanliness and godliness were not yet synonymous 
terms with the people, and everything was in a crude state of 
affairs. It took more than the "lure of the wild" to enable one to 
endure all this, and to follow the watchword, "Outward, Forward, 
Upward." Nothing less than a passion for souls, and a seeing 
Him, who is invisible, could give them such enduring faith and 
glorious victory. The hardships, privations, sufferings, distresses 
and dangers that were the daily companions of our pioneer preach- 
ers and of their families, are almost beyond the comprehension of 
modern affluence, ease of travel and days of better things. 

9 



1835 

INDIANA CONFERENCE 

The earliest bit of information concerning the foundation of 
the Indiana Conference is contained in a report of A. B. Shafer, 
which he sent in to the ChristUche Botschafter on May 1, 1848. 
Here he writes: "In taking a retrospective view of the Lord's 
work, I recall that in October, 1835, I helped hold the first 'big 
meeting' that was ever held in the State of Indiana, naraely, at 
Abington, Wayne County. According to my best recollection, we 
had at that time three members in this state." Mr. Shafer was at 
that time a local preacher of the Western Conference, and serving 
on the Miami Circuit in Ohio, made a trip to these parts in In- 
diana. From this small beginning sprang forth one of the largest 
of the Conferences in our Church. 

1836 

In the year 1836, the work of our Church began in and about 
Mt. Carmel, 111., some Pennsylvanians from Lehigh County hav- 
ing moved there during this year. The Evangelical Church His- 
tory says, "Here, the first conversions by means of our ministry 
took place in Illinois," John Butz, who seems to have been class- 
leader, was one of the active and valuable members. 

In the same year, work was begun near Greenville, Ohio, 
which was a part of the Miami Circuit of the Western Conference. 
This circuit extended into Indiana as far as East Germantown, 
which latter place was visited by Rev. Jacob Boas. A. B. Shafer 
reports that he assisted in holding the second "big meeting" in 
Indiana, near East Germantown, in 1836. Here there were twelve 
members. It may be that he was with Boas, and that they held 
this meeting together. 

The ChristUche Botschafter also reports that a camp-meeting 
was held during this year on this same circuit near Greenville, 
with good results. 

Those tender vines thus planted amid the briars of deepest 
corruption, grew, nevertheless, and brought forth fruit unto ever- 
lasting life. 

1837 

From a letter to the ChristUche Botschafter, dated January, 
1837, it is learned that Brother John Lutz and A. B. Shafer held 
a "big meeting" on Saturday, Dec. 31, 1836, and Sunday. Jan. 1, 
1837, near Ft. Brier in Darke County, Ohio, at D. Wolf's, Jacob 
Freyberger's and Jacob Winget's places. They report a glorious 

10 



1838 

AUTHENTIC HISTORY PRIOR TO THE ORGANIZATION 

time, especially during the celebration of the Lord's Supper, on 
Sunday morning. When the Communion service was almost over, 
some "old church" people came forward to participate in the serv- 
ice of the Supper, and great blessings fell down upon them. At the 
evening service, the newly converted received a special and gra- 
cious enduement with Divine power. Eighteen united with the 
Evangelical Association, and the fire began to burn in that com- 
munity, Noi' was opposition M^anting, for soon the enemies be- 
gan to call Brothers Lutz and Shafer, "Deceivers! Deceivers!" 

At the same time they wrote, "We have received word from 
the inner part of Indiana, and also from the western part, along 
the Wabash River, that there are many there who want the Bread 
of Life," And if at all possible, they would have gladly entered 
this open door. But, alas ! their circuit was too large already ! 

Brother Butz wrote in June, 1837, "I am like a solitary bird 
upon the roof, and meet with sore opposition ; but the Lord has 
thus far been with us. Three souls have been converted to God, 
who were awakened through our humble service, two of whom 
have obtained peace in our prayer services. The Lord alone be 
praised !" 

At the Conference session in May, Mt, Carmel was taken up 
as a mission, 

1838 

Rev, Peter Wiest was appointed to this large field this year, 
but none of the happenings of the Conference year have been re- 
corded. 

1839 

From a report in the Botschafter, dated December, 1839, 
Bishop John Seybert, but recently elected as bishop, made a visit 
to the Miami Circuit, and over into Indiana, evidently to inspect 
the work, and do some missionary service. This was bis first 
visit as bishop to our parts. 

At this time the Evangelical Association began operations in 
the northern part of Indiana, in the eflJicient labors of Sol. Alti- 
mos. Brother Altimos lived in Monroe County, Michigan, where 
he preached also. His field extended south to Yellow River. He 
also made a trip to Fuhrman's and Kern's, near Decatur, Ind., and 
to Bethlehem, near Ossian, Wells County, and Five Points, in Allen 
County, south-west of Ft. Wayne, Ind. He was cordially received 

11 



1840 

INDIANA CONFERENCE 

in Ft. Wayne, by Brother Stetzel, and preached in the vicinity 
with success. 

1840 

This year A. B. Sliafer and Levi Heiss were assigned to 
Miami Circuit, with instructions to give special attention to Day- 
ton, Ohio. There were many Germans residing- there, and ah-eady 
Henry Longbrake had preached a sermon here with good success. 
This Miami Circuit extended into 15 counties of Ohio and Indiana. 
Brother Shafer was so successful in Dayton that in the spring of 
the 3^ear 1841, before Conference, he could organize a class of 21 
members. On October 11, 1840, he M^rote to the Botschafter that 
they had held a camp-meeting on John Dill's farm, near East 
Germantown. Camp-meetings were something new, this being 
the first one held in the state, but the people came in the Spirit, 
and many were saved and united with the Church. The season 
was called "a time of the Son of man." 

1841 

Miami Circuit, having become so greatly enlarged by the ad- 
dition of new appointments, the Conference in 1841 found it nec- 
essary to detach the Indiana section of this field, and called it 
Whitewater Mission. The Ft. Wayne Mission was also estab- 
lished at this session. It extended into Adams, Wells, Huntington, 
Wabash, Allen, DeKalb and Noble Counties. Rev. John Hall was 
assigned as missionary to this field, and labored hard amidst many 
difficulties and discouragements. There were but few Germans 
in this section, the most of these being very poor, while the roads 
were almost impassable, rivers flooded and unbridged. He suc- 
ceeded, however, in forming several small classes, which formed 
the foundation for our future work. 

1842 

At the session of 1842, all the appointments in Southern Illi- 
nois and Indiana, along the Wabash River, were formed into Mt. 
Carmel Mission, with C. Augenstine as missionary. This field was 
a part of the Ohio District, with J. G. Zinser as presiding elder. 
Whitewater Mission, in charge of Adam Stroh, and Tobias; and 
Ft. Wayne Mission, M^hich now extended from Elkhart County, 
south to Wabash, thence east to Willshire, Ohio, thence north 
through Defiance and Williams Counties, and then west again to 

12 



1843 

AUTHENTIC HISTORY PRIOR TO THE ORGANIZATION 

Elkhart County, Indiana, and over into Michigan, also belonged 
to the Ohio District. Mt. Carmel Mission flourished under the 
efficient leadership and labors of its missionary. A camp-meet- 
ing was begun on Aug. 29th, in Lawrence County, on the farm 
of Philip Dundor, who had been a member of our Church before 
he came to Indiana. His home became a nucleus for our work in 
this vicinity, nearly 100 persons joining our Church in one year. 
Whitewater Mission had 91 members in its classes, and the work 
was prospering. 

In Dayton, Ohio, Brother Zinser began a meeting, October 
15th, in a Methodist Episcopal Church. On Monday evening, the 
17th, God's power was so great that the altar was filled with peni- 
tent souls, and many were soundly converted. The need of a 
church-building was keenly felt, and Brother Zinser appealed to 
the Church at large for financial aid. He headed the list with 
$5.00 of his own, which, in those days, was an enormous sum for 
a preacher to give out of his insignificant salary. The response 
was meager, and a second appeal had to be made, which met with 
better results. 

Ft. Wayne Mission had 32 members, and one appointment 
with regular and stated services. On June 28, Bishop Seybert 
preached in Ft. Wayne in a Methodist Episcopal Church to an 
attentive audience, which was without doubt the first sermon 
preached in Ft. Wayne by an Evangelical minister. From Ft. 
Wayne the bishop went to Elkhart County, and formed the first 
class having stated services on the district. This was probably 
at Canada, Union Township, south of Harrison Center. Mission- 
aries Hall and Nicolai toiled hard with apparently little success, 
encountering bitter opposition from preachers of formal and dead 
churches. 

1843 

The Conference session was held in the new stone church 
near Flat Rock, Ohio, May 10th. J. Kopf was elected presiding 
elder and stationed on the Ohio District. The fields were sup- 
plied as follows: Miami Circuit, Aaron Jambert and F. Meyer; 
Whitewater, John Nicolai and Peter Hahn ; Dayton Mission, A. 
B. Shafer; Ft. Wayne Circuit, D. Kern and Geo. A. Blank; Mt. 
Carmel, Chr. Lintner and A. Nicolai. 

The Dayton society was exceedingly glad to have a preacher 
by themselves, who could devote all his time to the work in Day- 

13 



1844 

INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ton. At the close of the first service, Shafer called a meeting of 
the men members, who decided to look for a room in the city sem- 
inary for a place of worship. It was granted them rent-free for 
several months. They again met on Friday evening, and planned 
the building of a church, electing a board of trustees and a builder. 
On Oct. 3 the church was dedicated. It was a time of great re- 
joicing, and many were saved and united with the Church. 

Ft. Wayne Circuit had 26 appointments, and the work looked 
very promising. The people gladly received their pastors, and 
even sought for them and urged them to preach the Gospel in 
their homes. Between 60-70 were, during the year, added to the 
Church. 

1844 

At the Conference session, held in the Lafayette Church, 
Wayne County, Ohio, May, 1844, the Illinois Conference was or- 
ganized. It had about 50 appointments, 60-80 miles apart, ex- 
tending through dense forests and over trackless prairies. The 
Indiana District of the Ohio Conference became a part of the Illi- 
nois Conference. Dayton Mission and Miami Circuit were added 
to the Indiana Conference later on. This new Conference was 
divided into two districts, named Indiana and Illinois, respectively. 
Mt. Carmel Mission, however, belonged to the Indiana District. 

The Conference covered a territory 500 miles long and 400 
miles wide, spreading itself over North-western Ohio, the whole 
of Indiana, Southern Michigan, all of Illinois, and into Wisconsin 
and Iowa. It was the largest district in the whole Church. The 
statistics of that time reveal that there were 763 members, 14 
preachers, 3 circuits, 6 m.issions, and 5 church buildings. The 
Indiana District could boast of one of these church buildings, 
located at East Germantown. Two Sunday-schools were to be 
found, one at Young's, near Wabash, and the other at East Ger- 
mantown. These were organized in 1840 and 1843, respectively. 

A. B. Shafer was presiding elder of the Indiana District, and 
was assisted by Fr. Mayer on the Whitewater Circuit, (xeo. A. 
Blank and Simon Tobias on Ft. Wayne Circuit, A. Nicolai and G. 
Platz on Mt. Carmel Mission. Mt. Carmel Mission enjoyed great 
prosperity, especially around Huntingburg, where Jacob Trome- 
ter, a local preacher, lived and labored with great succet^s. On 
Christmas morning God's power was greatly manifested in Hunt- 
ingburg under the preaching of Trom.eter. Children froru 10-12 

14 



1845 

AUTHENTIC HISTORY PRIOR TO THE ORGANIZATION 

years of age were mightily gripped by God's Word and converted. 
There were in all some 66 accessions on this mission during the 
year, and one new Sunday-school organized. 

Ft. Wayne Circuit also prospered. Bishop Seybert visited 
these parts this year and was greatly encouraged by the progress 
made. However, there would have been greater results had Bro. 
Tobias been able to remain on the field with Brother Blank. As 
it was. Brother Blank could reach the appointments but once in 
5 or 6 weeks. This made progress very slow, and the impressions 
few and far between. But in spite of it all the work wont for- 
ward. 

1845 

This Conference year was filled with trying experiences and 
some successes. Shafer was again appointed as presiding elder 
on the Indiana District, with C. Augenstein on Whitewater Cir- 
cuit, G. G. Platz and Wm. Kolb on Elkhart Circuit, Chr. Glaus on 
St. Mary's Mission (these latter two formerly constituted Ft. 
Wayne Circuit), S. Tobias and Ph. Bretsch on Mt. Carmel Cir- 
cuit, Jacob Trometer on Dubois Mission. 

For 5 months Chr. Glaus was unable to do any work on his 
field on account of illness. His enemies made good use of the time, 
filling the minds of the people with suspicion towards the Evan- 
gelical preachers, and hindered the work in every way possible. 
Great injury was done to the work on the St. Mary's Mission. Mt. 
Caimel Circuit enjoyed blessed meetings, and many conversions 
and accessions. On Dubois Mission, the Maple Grove Church, near 
Huntingburg, was dedicated Sept. 14, 1845. Brother G. G. Platz 
reported a glorious camp-meeting on Dill's farm, Wayne County, 
Ind., beginning Aug. 15, 1845. Many conversions and accessions 
came with great persecutions. Platz says : "There was good be- 
havior on the part of the outsiders until Tuesday night, when the 
hordes of Satan gathered without, armed with clubs and knives, 
presaging evil. During the preaching, a sham-battle was played, 
hoping to lure us out, and when they failed in this, they rushed in 
upon us, as we surrounded the altar and were praying with the 
many penitents. For an hour or more, we had a serious and rough 
time. God's people fell upon their knees and prayed earnestly, 
sinners cried mightily to God for pardon, while these hoodlums 
mocked and filled the air with their profanity. The ringleader 
called himself a Lutheran, and orthodox, and put us down as 
deceivers." 

15 



1846 

INDIANA CONFERENCE 

While the preachers were mostly young and inexperienced, 
yet they labored incessantly and with great zeal and earnestness, 
and not without blessing, 

1846 

The Conference met on June 10th of this year, in East Ger- 
mantown, Ind., and the appointments were made as follows : In- 
diana District, A. B. Schafer, P. E. ; Elkhart Circuit, Chr. Glaus 
and Wm. Ficht; Whitewater Circuit, G. G. Platz; Dubois, Phil. 
Bretsch; Mt, Carmel Circuit, John G. Miller and Jacob Trometer; 
St. Mary's Mission, Wm. Kolb. 

Some of their labors and hardships can be gathered from the 
following: A. E. Shafer left his home in East Germantown. July 
24th, for Vandalia, 111., 240 miles distant, where J. G. Miller had 
taken up several new appointments, which lay from 80 to 150 
miles from his headquarters in Mt. Carmel. Finding some Ger- 
mans, Schafer held a two days' meeting here in a Presbyterian 
Church, and paved the way for a new field, which was taken up 
the next year. On August the 6th, Schafer arrived at Marshall, 
111., where he assisted H. Tobias in a camp-meeting, which re- 
sulted in many conversions and accessions. He thence set out 
and came to Mt. Carmel, 111., where he conducted a camp-meeting 
on Adam Stolz's farm. With Brother Bretsch, Schafer proceeded 
east to Princeton, where he preached, and then on to Evansville, 
Rockport and Huntingburg, holding a 2 or 3 days' meeting in 
each place. After seven days of continuous travel, he arrived 
home safely, mounted on his trusted horse, Sept. 7th. J, G, Miller, 
reporting from Mt, Carmel Circuit, said: "It required 600 miles 
of travel to make one round on my field." He added to his field, 
Vandalia and vicinity, Springfield, Pulaski, Decatur, all in Illi- 
nois. He investigated the conditions in Southern Illinois, in a 
town called "Hochland," a German settlement, where rationalism 
prevailed, and then went to St. Louis, Mo., where half the popula- 
tion was German. (It is to be regretted that St, Louis, Decatur, 
and Springfield were not occupied at this time, instead of so many 
country places, where the work soon died out because of the lack 
of people.) 

Wm. Kolb, of St. Mary's Circuit, reports great opposition and 
spiritual apathy. About Willshire, Ohio, he found 5 preachers 
who were teaching baptismal regeneration, who greatly withstood 
his words. His meetings were greatly hindered by chill-fever, 

16 



1847 

AUTHENTIC HISTORY PRIOR TO THE ORGANIZATION 

which was raging eveiy where. His field was large and beset with 
many hindrances. High water, swamps, bridges gone, and other 
things to make his woik difficult. But once in three weeks could 
he m.ake his appointments. He reports success in Defiance and 
Williams Counties, especially in Brunnersberg, near Defiance. In 
DeKalb County he organized five classes, of which 2 were near 
Auburn, Indiana. Elkhait Circuit showed good success, especially 
around Bremen, Ind., and along the Yellow River, The district 
made progress in general, but the scarcity of competent workers to 
man the field was greatly deplored by the presiding elder, Schafer 
sent out a strong appeal to the East for vigorous young men to 
come and enter this promising and needy West. 

1847 

The Conference, which convened in Naperville, 111., detached 
the part of Mt. Carmel Circuit, called afterward Vandalia Circuit, 
and added it to the Iirno:'s District. Trometer was obliged to 
locate on account of illness. Fr. Wiethaput, Henry Welty, Geo, 
Messner and Henry Eiteiman were licensed as probationers. The 
appointments on the Indiana District were as follows: A. B, Scha- 
fer, P. E,; Whitewater, Chr. Glaus; Elkhart Circuit, G. G. Platz, 
Fr, Wiethaupt and H. Welty ; Dubois Circuit, A. Nicolai ; Mt. 
Carmel, Wm. Ficht; DeKalb Circuit, Phil. Bretsch ; St. Mary's 
Circuit, Sam. Dickover, 

On the whole, it was a prosperous year, Nicolai was suc- 
cessful on Dubois Circuit, especially around Huntingburg, War- 
renton (now Tabor, Elberfeld), and at Rockport and Zoar, Scha- 
fer reported good meetings on the Elkhart Circuit, having organ- 
ized two new classes, one at Peter Wiest's place, Marshall County, 
Ind., the other at Jacob Roth's, Kosciusko County. He also speaks 
of two new churches being built, one at Ott's, near Benton, Ind., 
and the other at Salem, Fulton County. In all, Elkhart Circuit 
had 13 organized classes at this time. Whitewater Circuit «howed 
good progress and could boast of one new church building, Mt. 
Carmel Circuit was deprived of pastoral care the whole year, ow- 
ing to severe illness of Brother Ficht, nevertheless the people con- 
tinued faithful and completed the building of their new brick 
church. The other fields showed equal signs of progress and en- 
couragement. 

17 



1848 
INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1848 

Bishop Joseph Long presided at the Conference, held in 
Emanuel Church, Cook County, 111. At the session he began a 
Conference Library for Ministers, by donating ten German gram- 
mars, for the use of preachers who could not afford to purchase 
any of their own. He appealed to the ministers to add other books, 
whose use might increase the efficiency of the young men. 

The Indiana Conference was divided into two parts, Wabash 
and St. Joseph Districts. The appointments were as follows : 
Wabash District, A. B. Schafer, P. E. ; Whitewater Circuit, Geo. 
A. Blank; Dubois, A. Nicolai and H. Esh ; Mt. Carmel, Chr. 
Glaus. St. Joseph District, Chr. Augenstein, P. E. ; Elkhart Cir- 
cuit, S. Dickover and B. Uphaus ; St. Mary's, Fr. Wiethaup ; De- 
Kalb, H. Eiterman. Wm. Ficht had to locate on account of illness. 

This was another prosperous year. Camp-meetings were held 
at Mt. Carmel, Marshall and Huntingburg, with good results. The 
newly built brick church at Mt. Carmel was dedicated December 
2, 1848. 

Regarding Maple Grove Camp-ground, Bishop J. Seybert re- 
ports as follows : "I attended a camp-meeting at Maple Grove, 
near Huntingburg, where our friends bought 40 acres of good tim- 
ber land from the Government for the sum of $50.00. They have 
built well-covered log-tents, and a preacher's stand and tent, right 
close to their church, so that the church can be used in case it 
rains. This property is consecrated to God by a people who, in 
their poverty, have made a place for the saving of souls. Where 
can the like be found among the rich converted Americans? No 
wonder that the windows of heaven were opened over us, and sin- 
ners were converted and believers greatly blessed." 

1849 

The Annual Conference was again held at Naperville, 111., 
and many changes were made. J. G. Miller and Ph. Bretsch lo- 
cated on account of ill health, Chi'. Augenstein resigned as presid- 
ing elder. The Conference had new additions in receiving J. P. 
Kramer of the East Pennsylvania Conference and Peter Goetz of 
the Ohio Conference. Jacob Keiper and C. A. Schnake were li- 
censed as probationers. The northern part of Mt. Caimel Circuit 
was detached and called Marshall Circuit. St. Joseph District 
was again united to Wabash District on account of the insuffi- 
ciency of men. The appointments were as follows : 

18 



1849 
AUTHENTIC HISTORY PRIOR TO THE ORGANIZATION 

Wabash District, Presiding Elder, A. B. Schafer; White- 
water, W. H. Ragaz; Dubois, Chr. Glaus and J. Keiper; Mt. Car- 
mel, S. Dickover; Marshall, A. Nicolai ; Elkhart, G. G. Platz, 
Geo. Messner and B. Uphaus; St. Mary's, Peter Goetz ; DeKalb, 
Fr. Wiethaup. 

Prosperity again smiled upon the Wabash District this year 
also. A. B. Schafer writes: "In 1844, Wabash District consisted 
in Whitewater and Ft. Wayne Circuits and Mt. Carmel Mission. 
We had but one church edifice. Now there are five strong circuits, 
two missions, eleven church buildings, two more in building and an- 
other about to be constructed. One parsonage (likely at Ott's)." 
Besides this, domestic conditions were greatly improved, and even 
the roads were more easily traveled. Camp-meetings were held 
and crowned with success, many finding salvation and uniting 
with the Church. Churches were dedicated during the year at 
Canada Class, Union Township, Elkhart County, at Huntingburg, 
and one at Warrenton. While the latter w^as being dedicated on 
Christmas day, the power of God fell upon the whole congregation, 
and not a single sinner in the house was left without being brought 

to repentance. 

1850 

At this session, which again convened at Emanuel's Church, 
Cook County, 111., the Conference celebrated the 50th anniversary 
of the Evangelical Association, It was a great jubilee. This Con- 
ference heartily approved the action of the Church in establishing 
a mission in Germany. Arrangements were made for the exam- 
ination of junior preachers. This was a new departure. The 
western part of Whitewater Circuit was detached and called Ham- 
ilton Mission, the southern part of Elkhart Circuit was detached 
and named Miami Mission. The Wabash District was again di- 
vided into the Wabash and St. Joseph Districts. A. B. Schafer 
resigned as presiding elder and returned to the Ohio Conference. 

The appointments were as follows : Wabash District, Presid- 
ing Elder, G. A. Blank; Whitewater, J. G. Esher; Dubois, Fr. 
Wiethaup and B. Uphaus; Mt. Carmel, S. A. Tobias; Marshall, 
J. H. Ragaz. St. Joseph District, Presiding Elder, Chr. Augen- 
stein; Elkhart, J. J. Esher, J. F. Wolf; St. Mary's, P. Goetz, P. 
Burgener; Miami, Joseph Fisher. 

Six hundred and fifty accessions crowned the labors of this 
most fruitful year, and the brethren were greatly encouraged to 
do exploits for God and the Church. 

19 



1851 
INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1851 

This was destined to be the last year that the Indiana Dis- 
trict would continue to be a part of the Illinois Conference. The 
General Conference, which convened in October, ordered the de- 
tachment of the Indiana District and the formation of the new 
Conference, to be called "The Indiana Conference." S. Dick- 
over and G. A. Blank were the chosen delegates to this General 
Conference. 

The entire year was a prosperous one along all lines. The 
blessing of God rested upon the Conference as a whole, and espe- 
cially upon the Indiana section. 

The appointments were as follows : Wabash District, G. A. 
Blank, P. E.; Whitewater Circuit, J. Keiper; Dubois Circuit, Fr. 
Weithaup, Fr. Schuerman ; Mt. Carmel-Marshall, Geo. Messner, 
J. F. Wolf; Hamilton Mission, A. Nicolai. St. Joseph District, 
S. Dickover, P. E.; Elkhart Circuit, J. H. Ragaz, Jos. Fisher; 
St. Mary, B. Uphaus, Peter Burgener; Miami, P. Goetz, Hauert. 



20 



ORGANIZATION OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE: 1852 

Organization of the Indiana Conference and 
Territorial Extent 

In keeping with the action of the General Conference, held 
October, 1851, the Indiana Conference was organized at the regu- 
lar session of the Illinois Conference, held in Naperville, 111., June 
16, 1852. Bishop Seybert w^as the chairman, and J. J. Esher 
the secretary. (As the Indiana Conference did not hold any sepa- 
rate session when it organized, the session always comes at the 
close of the Conference year.) The following brethren united 
with this Conference and became its charter members: Samuel 
Dickover, Christian Glaus, A. Nicolai, Fred Wiethaup, Bernard 
Uphaus, Joseph Fisher, Peter Burgener, Peter Goetz, Fred Schuer- 
man, Jacob Keiper, M. W. Steffey, Gerh. Franzen, Bernard Ruh. 
Out of this number but three survived to celebrate the 50th anni- 
versary of the Indiana Conference. These were: M. W. Steffey, 
J. Keiper and Bern. Ruh. 

There were thirteen preachers, 1,285 members and 16 church 
buildings as a beginning of this Conference, which grew until 
now, 1915, there are 135 preachers, 14,228 members, 160 church 
buildings, 65 parsonages. 

The Conference extended over a vast territory. Beginning 
at Williams County, Ohio, it continued south through Defiance, 
Paulding, Van Wert and Mercer Counties, thence a little south- 
west into Wayne County, Ind., and west through Henry, Hancock, 
Marion, Hamilton, Madison and Tipton Counties, south again, 
leaping over many counties, into Dubois, Spencer, Warrick. Gib- 
son and Vanderburg Counties, then west once more into White 
County, 111., and up through Edwards, Wabash, Richland, Law- 
rence, and Clark Counties, east into Vigo and Clay County, Ind., 
then north-east into the counties along both sides of the upper 
Wabash River, and into the northern and eastern counties in In- 
diana, extending into Southern Michigan. This great field chal- 
lenged the "Brave Thirteen" to noble battle. With faith and 
courage they went forth in the name of their Lord and Master to 
possess the field and make it subject to the Kingdom. Little at- 
tention was paid to English-speaking people, which surely was a 
mistake, but with holy abandon they went to seek the lost sheep 
of the "Fatherland," especially as they were found in the rural 
districts. The cities were considered impregnable, and the seat 
of all corruption and beyond cure, and generally "passed ])y on the 
other side." 

21 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

This territory was divided into two presiding elder districts, 
called St. Joseph and Wabash. The following were the fields and 
the various appointments: 

ST. MARY'S CIRCUIT 

Consisted of the following classes: Fuhrman, 7 miles north- 
west, and Salem, 2 miles east of Decatur; Furthmiller, 9 miles 
east; Five Points, 9 miles south-west; Reserve, Bethlehem, 12 
miles south of Ft. Wayne; Gottschalk (Salem) and Vera Cruz, in 
Wells County, and Haley (Zion), Jay County, Stuber County, 0.; 
Hellwarth's and Smith's (Hope), near Celina ; Settlers, near Will- 
shire, Mercer County; St. Peters and Mohrs (Grand Victory), Van 
Wert County, and St. Paul, Paulding County, Ohio. 

ELKHART CIRCUIT 

Composed of Ott's or Salem, Ebenezer, Benton, Waterford, 
Middleport (Dunlaps), Schwartz's, Loose's, Smith's, Harrison 
Center, Canada, Union Township, Elkhart County, Berrien and 
other points in Michigan, Mishawaka, Coalbush, in St. Joseph 
County, Barren (now Bremen), Hepton and Heim's in Marshall 
County, Oster's, near Milford, North Webster, near Larville, 
Strickler's, near Warsaw, in Kosciusko County. 

WHITEWATER CIRCUIT 

Comprised of New Lisbon, Cambridge, Zion Church, East 
Germantown, Pennville, Jacksonburg, Winchester, and probably 
others. 

DEKALB MISSION 

Was made up of Stroh's and Husselman's, between Waterloo 
and Auburn; Diehl's, four miles south of Butler, Schutt's and 
Kramer's, south of Edgerton, Brunnersburg, near Defiance, Dick- 
man's and Kuhn's, north of Brunnersburg, Miller's, north-west 
of Avilla, Schlichtenmeyer's, near Kendallville, west, Dutch St. 
(Wolcottville), Eshelman's (Wright's Corner), Lima and Van 
Buren, now of the Michigan Conference. 

MARSHALL CIRCUIT 

Consisted in Marshall, Mill Creek, Big Creek, in Clarke Co.; 
Dundor's, Tohill's, Ell's, Freudenberger's and Lieberer's appoint- 
ments, in Lawrence Co., Vandalia and surroundings, in Illinois. 

22 



ORGANIZATION OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE: 1852 

DUBOIS CIRCUIT 

Embraced Huntingburg, Maple Grove, Warrentown (Tabor), 
Elberfeld, Kohlmeier, near Sommerville, a class in a Methodist 
Episcopal Church, in Paris, Posey Co., Boonville, Evansville, Rock- 
port, Zoar, Miller's, near Rockport, Ind. 

MT. CARMEL CIRCUIT 

Embodied Mt. Carmel, Grand Prairie, near Olney, West Salem, 
Lancaster, Timberville, Bonpus and Carmi. 

MIAMI CIRCUIT IN OHIO 

Embracing Mississinawa, Lightsville, Troy, Vandalia. Phil- 
lipsburg, Seibles, New Hope, Eaton, Ware's Chapel, and Dayton 
Mission, were ceded to the Ohio Conference in 1852, but were in- 
corporated in the Indiana Conference in 1856. 

HAMILTON MISSION 

Embodied Indian Creek, Stony Creek, Clarksville, Dicks, 
Cicero, Pendleton and Whitewater appointments. 

MIAMI MISSION (FULTON CIRCUIT) 

Embraced Barnheisel, New Ark, Condo's, Walter's, Sharpie's, 
around Bunker Hill ; Silver Lake, in Kosciusko Co., Meyer's, Lein- 
inger's, Stetzel's, in Huntington Co.; Young's and Laketon, in 
Wabash Co. ; Salem and Zwingeisen's, Leidersford, Lake Bruce, 
South Germany, in Fulton Co. ; Zechiel's, Twin Lakes, Maxin- 
kukee. Flora, in Marshall Co. ; two appointments south-west of 
Logansport, and others. 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




ORIGINAL INDIANA CONFERENCE 
1852. 



1. s, |iM'K<'\KK, 

2. A Mini, \l. 

;i. JoShl'il hl>liKl;. 



7. rnK. i;i,Ai s 
,-<. i"Kri;i: (joKi'Z, 
'.1. M. \v. sri;r i-'i:y 



4. GEH)iAi:i i i;anzi;n. lo. Pi^riKU i!ri;«.i;N i.u. 



6. B. HI 11. 
6. J. KEIPEH. 



11. iv w 11.1 II. \rr, 

V2. HKUNIIAUn I I'll A I 



i;j. I\ SC Hi; HUMAN. 



24 



Map of the Indiana Conference in 1902 



TATISTICS 1902 



ol CbuTChea In 


Count 


Se»t3 


B 13 


In U 


io 




InK 


ntufky 


olConvenion- 


inra] 


52 


■ to the Churc 






who died wnce 


im 






y School Scbolara 



Misiionsbote 


_ IJ5 


Sundiy SchoK. 


1 Teacher - , fftfl 


pUlle 




piitlc A Sunday 


School Teacher X 


ry Mesaengcr 








!chool Mi'isenjtc 


2,391 






of PwBoniige. 


49 


■dVilue of Churches I360.&7600 




naxea 1 62.625.00 


" '■ Oalt- 


'ood Pork « W.OOOM 


■' ■" other 


property « 6.960,00 


ootriboteJ lor Ho 


me and Forelftn 


sslonary Work i 


nre 1852 *2ie,a61.5n 






'fielby^66 




Ctitfi 


< 


T0.TTlO7ffc6fr 




^d'jewonii* 


..*»■ 










BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CONFERENCE OF 1865 




Vompliinciils (if [iidiana En'jraiiiii/ Co. 



MEMBERS OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE, 1SG5 



1. Al)s:)loin B. Schafer 15. 

2. Eli L. Kipling-er 16. 

3. John M. Gomel' 17. 

4. Belt. Hoffman 18. 

5. Fr. Wiethaup 10. 

6. John Beck 20. 

7. John Berger 21. 

8. Geo. Kloepfer 22. 

9. Aug. Scholz 23. 

10. Dan'l Bartholomew 24. 

11. Chr. Heim 25. 

12. And. Parker 26. 

13. Geo. Ziminci 27. 

14. Adam Hartzlet 28. 



Peter Wiest 
Salem S. Albert 
Geo. .\. Hertel 
Sam. Kiplinger 
Carl Schamo 
Melehior Mayer 
John Fox 
John Kaufman 
Chr. Glaus 
Geo. G. Platz 
Henry L. Fisher 
Mich. Klaiber 
Wm. Wesseler 
Phil. Porr 

25 



29. 
30. 
31. 
32. 
33. 
34. 
35. 
36. 
37. 
38. 
39. 
40. 
41. 



David S. OakPS 
Edw. Evans 
Peter Roth 
Mich. Krueger 
Geo. Schmoll 
Jos. Fisher 
John Hoffman 
John M. Kronmiller 
Math. Iloehn 
John Kastetter 
Mich. \V. Steffey 
Chr. Wessling 
Bernh. L'pliaus 
Bishop Jos. Long 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CONFERENCE OF 1865 

At the session of the Annual Conference, held in South Bend, 
Ind., September, 1865, just fifty years ago, the above photograph 
was taken. Forty-two sturdy and faithful pioneer workers, who 
did much toward bringing the Conference to its present standmg, 
are here represented, E. L. Kiplinger, John Beck, Geo. Zimmer, 
John Fuchs, John Kaufman, Edward Evans, M. Krueger, John 
Hoffman and Math. Hoehn are still with us, but not in the active 
ranks. 

Of these the following held the office of presiding elder in the 
Indiana Conference: A. B. Schafer, 3 years; E. L. Kiplinger, 12 
years; John Berger, 3 1/4 years ; Mel. Mayer, 8 years ; John Fuchs, 
5 years; Chr. Glaus, 3 years; G. G. Platz, 12 years; H. L. Fisher, 
2 years ; D. S. Oakes, 22 years ; M. Krueger, 12 years ; Jos. Fisher, 
8 years ; M. Hoehn, 4 years ; M. W. Steffey, 16 years. This office 
was held in the South Indiana Conference by John Fuchs, 8 years ; 
H. L. Fisher, 5 years (died in office) ; John Kaufman, 12 years, 
and J. M. Gomer, in Texas Conference for 11 years. 

Of these F. Wiethaup, Chr. Glaus, Jos. Fisher and M. W. 
Steffey were the only charter members of the Conference who were 
still in active service. 

The following served as secretaries of Conference : A. B. 
Schafer, 1 year; M. Hoehn, 8 years; G. G. Platz, 1 year; M. 
Mayer, 5 years; M. Klaiber, 1 year; John Berger, 3 years; D. S. 
Oakes, 5 years. 

The following represented the Indiana Conference and oth- 
ers as delegates to General Conference: M. W. Steffey, 9 times; 
D. S. Oakes, 6 times; G. G. Platz, M. Krueger, E. L. Kiplinger, 
John Fuchs, each 4 times ; A. B. Schafer, Jos. Fisher, John Kauf- 
man, M. Mayer, each 3 times; M. Hoehn, H. L. Fisher, each 2 
times. 

These three served as Conference treasurers: G. G. Platz, 
1862-3; M. Hoehn, 1864-73, and J. M. Gomer, 1874-79. 



26 



MISSIONARY OPERATIONS AND EXPANSION 

Missionary Operations and Expansion in the 

Conference 

True to the spirit of the Evangelical Association, the Indiana 
Conference has been missionary from the very beginning. In the 
operation of missionary interests in her Conference bounds she 
has in the last 38 years alone spent some $196,000.00. She has 
striven to not only keep pace with the needs of the time, and to 
enter every open door, but has had to do the same in the face of 
changing conditions. So long as the work was carried on in the 
German language, it was not so difficult, for the field was largely 
our own, and keen church competition was unknown. However, 
since the Conference has largely become English, and the new 
work generally begun in the larger cities, extension has not been 
so rapid and made only at great cost. 

Sometimes zeal ran away with better judgment, enterprises 
hastily entered into, only to be abandoned after much money had 
been spent. Sometimes patience was absent and fields were aban- 
doned prematurely. In particular is this true in the larger cities. 
At times the effort put forth was in such a half-hearted way that 
nothing permanent or large could be accomplished, especially have 
our mission churches in the cities been greatly hindered by small, 
inadequate and cheaply constructed church buildings. Yet we are 
profoundly thankful to God for the advance that has been made, 
and trust that we may profit by the errors of the past. Not a few 
of the so-called "everlasting missions" are such on account of im- 
proper location, and inadequate and unattractive church build- 
ings, and we greatly rejoice that these matters are being taken 
into account in the locating of new missions. 

The Indiana Conference Missionary Society, which is auxil- 
iary to the Parent Missionary Society, has been a great factor in 
promoting the missionary interests of the Conference, especially 
in securing the funds needed for the proper prosecution of the 
work. The society has been earnestly advocating the adoption of 
the Duplex Envelope System, which provides for the weekly 
method of giving toward benevolences and missions, and are re- 
joiced that the leading churches in the Conference have adopted 
the plan. Also great stress has been laid upon the early payment 
of missionary money into the missionary treasury, so that the 
missionaries can be paid their needed salaries. 

The following items of interest occurred during the years : 
At the close of the Civil War the Conference decided to support 

27 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

a mission among the "Freed Negroes," as soon as the Board of 
Missions saw fit to establish such a mission, but the Board never 
saw fit! In 1866 Jacob Henn visited this Conference as repre- 
sentative of the Central Pennsylvania Conference, soliciting funds 
for the building of a church and launching a mission in Washing- 
ton, D. C. He was received with open arms and allowed to collect 
throughout the Conference for said project. After a few years 
the field was abandoned and the mission came to naught. In '75 
the missionary visions were numerous and almost as futile as 
numerous. St. Louis, Mound City, Cairo, Richmond and Logans- 
port were among those that sprang up like mushrooms over night, 
and, alas ! melted away almost as fast, save one, and this one has 
been a mission for over forty years. In one year alone $2,438 was 
appropriated to these four fruitless missions, not to mention the 
drain they were upon the treasury for years. It has been the con- 
viction of many that St. Louis should have been continued as a 
mission. Cincinnati, West Louisville, Laporte, West Indianapo- 
lis, Cumberland, Cleveland and Chattanooga, Tennessee, were other 
missions in the same category. The church in North-east Indian- 
apolis was wrecked by a tornado and sold to negroes and the field 
abandoned. West Louisville Mission was given up in despair. La- 
porte and Vandalia churches were sold and the proceeds applied to 
the Conference debt. Cincinnati Mission seemed unpromising, 
and being greatly involved financially, was ordered sold. Muncie 
Church was sold also, and the field abandoned. 

In 1910 a very important standing committee was appointed, 
known as the "Committee on Location and Erection of Churches." 
This committee, consisting of the presiding bishop, the presiding 
elders and the pastor and trustees where the church is to be built, 
has for its aim the proper locating of missions and erecting of 
churches. Premature and unwise locations are thus avoided and 
many errors guarded against. 

That there have been many fruitful and promising missions 
launched, is a fact that causes us much joy, and especially; do we 
feel elated over the missions established in recent years, and that 
some of the "everlasting ones" are getting new buildings and be- 
coming stations. For a complete list of these missions, see "Mis- 
sions, Stations and Circuits," found elsewhere in this volume. 

The Conference has, likewise, taken very active part in the 
work of foreign missions ; especially have our young people done 
a splendid work in supporting a missionary of their own. We are 
highly gratified that Indianapolis First Church supports two mis- 
sionaries on the foreign field, and trust that the time will soon 

28 



MISSIONARY OPERATIONS AND EXPANSION 

come when more of our individual churches will have a "living- 
link." 

In 1913 the constitution of the Conference Missionary Society 
was so revised as to meet the needs of the present. It was drawn 
up by Presiding Elder S. H. Baumgartner, and, with slight alter- 
ations, adopted as follows : 

REVISED CONSTITUTION OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE MISSIONARY 

SOCIETY 

Article 1 — This society shall be called the Indiana Conference 
Missionary Society, auxiliary to the Missionary Society of the 
Evangelical Association. 

Article 2 — The purpose of this society is to devise ways and 
secure funds for the successful prosecution of her work within 
the bounds of the Indiana Conference, under the direction of the 
General Board of Missions. 

Article 3 — Each member of this society shall pay annually a 
specified amount for the support of the society. 

Article 4 — The management of the business of the society 
shall be in the hands of its officers, who shall consist of a president, 
vice-president, secretary and treasurer, who shall be elected an- 
nually by a majority vote. 

Article 5 — All "preachers-in-charge" of the Indiana Confer- 
ence shall be the authorized agents of the society to form auxil- 
iaries and solicit contributions from all church-members of their 
charge, making- an earnest effort to exceed the minimum sum ap- 
portioned by the Conference to the field. Any minister failing- 
to do his duty in this matter shall be reported to the society by 
the secretary. 

Article 6 — The members of this society shall meet on Wed- 
nesday, 9 a. m., previous to the opening of the Conference sessions, 
at the place where Conference sessions are held, for the transac- 
tion of the business of the society, and make arrangements for 
the annual missionary meeting, which shall be held dui'ing the 
Conference session. 

Article 7 — This society, through its secretary, shall send to 
the corresponding secretary of the General Missionary Society 
an annual report of the transaction of business. Also a report 
of the treasurer shall be forwarded to the missionary treasurer. 

Article 8 — The president shall preside at all of the meetings, 
and in his absence the vice-president. In the absence of both, the 
society shall elect one of its members as chairman pro tern. It is 

29 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

the duty of the president to preach a missionary sermon at the 
annual meeting, or appoint some minister thereto. 

Article 9 — This society has power to adopt such by-laws as 
may be necessary for the management of her business and the 
successful prosecution of all her interests to the consummation 
of the object of its existence. However, they shall not conflict 
with the constitution of the Missionary Society of the Evangelical 
Association. 

Article 10 — This constitution can be changed or amended 
only by a two-thirds majority vote. 

Article 11 — The sum of $15.00 paid at one time entitles the 
donor to a life membership in this society. 

Article 12 — That a missionary auxiliary shall be formed by 
the pastor in the first quarter of each Conference year, in any 
society where $5.00 is subscribed, and monthly missionary meet- 
ings shall be held by the president of the auxiliary, or some one 
appointed by him, and voluntary offerings shall be taken, and pay- 
ments be made on subscriptions given. 

Article 13 — That all Sunday-schools of the Conference shall 
contribute annually five (5) cents per member or more (members 
of the Home and Cradle Roll Departments, not to be included), 
for the support of such mission, on their respective presidi'ig elder 
district, as designated annually by the Conference Sunday-school 
Board, and approved by the Annual Conference. 

And that each Sunday-school that contributes five (5) cents 
per member shall be designated as a Star Sunday-school. All 
moneys as raised shall be applied to the district to which the 
schools belong, but shall be paid to the secretary and treasurer 
of the society for record, and be distributed as directed by the 
Conference Sunday-school Board. 

Article 14 — The delegate to the Board of Missions shall be 
elected by ballot. He shall give a report of such work of the Gen- 
eral Board of Missions that vitally pertains to the Indiana Con- 
ference missionary work. 

Article 15 — Each missionary shall annually present a written 
report of the state of his mission to the Committee on State of 
Missions at the annual business meeting, and the committee re- 
port the whole to the Conference. This committee shall annually 
be appointed by the president of the society. 

BY-LAWS 

1 — Subscriptions given by lay-members, at the annual mis- 
sionary meeting, shall be credited to their respective fields as ex- 

30 



MISSIONARY OPERATIONS AND EXPANSION 

tras, and shall not be included in the apportionment to the field, 
excepting to such societies as entertain the Conference. 

2 — All local auxiliary subscriptions given shall be paid, if 
possible, on or before July 1st, October 1st, January 1st, and 
March 25th, to the local missionary secretary, who shall remit the 
money on hand, on above dates, to the pastor, who shall promptly 
forward the same to the Conference missionary secretary. The 
missionary secretary shall order paid, on request, within ten days 
after the above dates, an equal per cent to the missionaries on 
their appropriations of the moneys on hand, unless missionaries 
voluntarily waive this right in preference to others. 

3 — All money received for the Missionary Society of the In- 
diana Conference, from Sunday-schools, Woman's Missionary So- 
cieties, and all individual gifts, bequests and annuities, shall be 
reported to the annual meeting, and shall not be counted as a part 
of the apportionment to the field, but as extras from the field. 

4 — The presiding elders shall notify the pastors of the fields, 
before the first quarterly meeting, of the amount of the appor- 
tionment to their fields. On the second round they shall inquire 
of the pastors if the auxiliaries have been renewed, and subscrip- 
tions taken for the support of missions, and at the Quarterly Con- 
ference the president shall ask how many monthly missionary 
meetings were held during the quarter, and what is the condition 
of the society. 

At the session of 1914, a forward step was taken that put 
the society on a better business basis. Especially is this true in 
regard to the apportionment, which from now on is to be in ex- 
cess of the appropriations. Formerly the apportionment was con- 
siderably less than the appropriations, and the success of the mis- 
sionary treasury depended upon large surpluses, which sometimes 
failed to appear. The resolution, as adopted, reads as follows: 

Whereas, The time seems to have come for adopting a differ- 
ent method to secure funds necessary for our Conference mission- 
ary work, therefore 

Resolved, That we abandon the method of public solicitation 
from the laity, where Conference sessions are held for this purpose 
and, instead authorize the Committee on Appropriations and Ap- 
portionment to raise the apportionment to the fields sufficiently to 
balance the amount that was usually raised on Sunday afternoons, 
and that this go into effect at once, that the subscriptions made by 
the ministers at the missionary meeting be credited on the appor- 
tionment of each charge. 

31 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Missions, Stations and Circuits Established 
Since 1852 

1852 — Evansville as a mission. 

1853 — Olnej^ as a mission. 

1854 — South Bend and Newville (Linn Grove) as missions. 

1855 — Indianapolis and Berrien (Mich.) as missions. 

1856 — Dayton, 1st, made a station. The entire of the Miami 
Circuit in Ohio was ceded back to the Indiana Conference. 
Clay County Mission detached from Marshall Circuit. 
Western pait of Dubois Circuit was made into Warrenton 
Circuit, now Elberfeld. 

1858 — Marshall Circuit was divided into Marshall and Vandalia 
Missions. Cicero Mission was formed out of western part 
of Whitewater Circuit. Waupecong Mission formed from 
appointments of the Fulton Circuit south of the Wabash 
River. 

1859 — Defiance Mission was formed from classes east of the St. 
Joseph River, belonging to DeKalb Circuit. Huntington 
Circuit was formed out of the western part of St. Mary 
Circuit. Miami Circuit was divided into Montgomery Mis- 
sion and Greenville Circuit. Olney Mission was made a 
circuit. South Bend City and Kerstettler's class were made 
a mission. 

1860 — Dubois Circuit was divided into Rockport Mission and 
Huntingburg Circuit. 

1861 — Due to Civil War financial crisis, a number of missions 
were served with circuits. The eastern part of Berrien 
Circuit was made into Bainbridge Mission. Ionia Mission 
was formed from the northern part of Calhoun Mission. 

]862 — Cicero Mission was made into a circuit. Lafayette, Cov- 
ington and Danville, 111., were made a mission, Bainbridge 
was reincorporated with Berrien. 

1863 — Rockport Mission was reformed. Mississinawa and Van 
Wert Missions were made. South Bend City was again 
made a mission. 

1864^ — Louisville, Ky., Richmond and Medaryville vicinity were 
constituted as missions. Montgomery Mission was made a 
circuit. Lima Circuit was formed out of Van Buren, Lake 
Pleasant and Brookville classes. Michigan Conference was 
organized with Berrien, St. Joseph, Lima Circuits and 

32 



NEW MISSIONS, STATIONS AND CIRCUITS 

Kalamazoo and Ionia Missions from the Indiana Confer- 
ence. 

1865 — St. Joseph District was named Elkhait District. Van Wert 
Mission was made a circuit. St. Louis was taken up as a 
mission on paper only! 

1866 — Indianapolis, 1st, was made a station. Pulaski Circuit and 
N. Liberty Mission were formed. 

1867 — South Bend Mission was changed to a station. Carmi and 
Defiance Missions became circuits. Ft. Wayne and Elk- 
hart cities w^ere taken up as new mission appointments. 
Cumberland Mission was formed. N. Liberty Mission was 
discontinued. Conference was redistricted into four dis- 
tricts. 

1868 — Mt. Carmel was made a station. West Salem Circuit was 
formed from Mt. Carmel Circuit. Marshall Mission was 
made a circuit. Wabash Mission near Lafayette was di- 
vided into Danville and Spring Grove Missions. Twin Lake 
Circuit was formed from the Fulton Circuit north of the 
Tippecanoe River. Medaryville Mission was formed (San 
Pierre) . Huntington Mission was made a circuit. 

1869 — Huntingburg Circuit was made a station. A new mission 
was to be located in south-east Dayton, but failed to mate- 
rialize. 

1870 — Danville Mission was discontinued. Cehna Mission was 
formed from the southern points of Van Wert Circuit. 

1871 — A new mission was established inthenorth-eastendof Indian- 
apolis, but was discontinued after the church edifice had been 
damaged by a tornado. Richmond Mission was made a part of 
Montgomery Circuit. Sulphur Spring appointment was added 
to Indianapolis Mission. Van Wert city and vicinity became 
a mission. Waupecong Mission became a circuit. 

1872 — Olney and Louisville Missions were made stations. West 
Louisville Mission was located. Wabash Mission was 
formed. Medaryville Mission became a circuit. New Paris 
and Silver Lake Circuits were formed. 

1873 — Brazil Mission was formed from classes east of State line 
from the Marshall Circuit. Waterloo and Kendallville 
Circuits were formed from DeKalb Circuit. Richmond and 
Winchester Missions were formed. South Bend Mission 
was discontinued and incorporated with the station. 

1874 — St. Louis was again to be taken up as a mission! Mound 
City and Cairo Mission was established in southern Illinois. 
Decatur Mission was formed. Elkhart Mission with the 

33 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Schwartz class was made a station, and the Conference loan 
of $448.00 was donated. Mishawaka and Coal Bush were 
made a mission. Elkhart English and Loose class became 
Watchtower Mission. Logansport Mission was formed. 

1875 — Mound City and Cairo Missions were made Jonesboro Mis- 
sion. Murphysboro was taken up as a new mission. Lake 
Creek in Williams Co., 111., was taken up as a new mission. 
Celina Mission became a circuit. Conference was redis- 
tricted into five. Conference asked the formation of the 
South Indiana Conference. 

1876 — South Indiana Conference formed from the appointments 
along the lower Wabash River valley, together with those 
in southern Indiana and Illinois, Cincinnati and northern 
Kentucky. Laporte, Ind., was taken up as new mission, 
but soon discontinued. 

1877 — Some changes in boundary were made. 

1878 — Decatur Mission was reincorporated with St. Mary. 

1879 — North Webster Mission was formed. 

1880 — Winchester and Emmettsville classes formed a new mission. 
N. Liberty Mission was formed. Spring Grove Mission was 
discontinued. Richmond was added to E. Germantown. 

1881 — Rochester and Royal Center Missions were formed. 

1882 — Logansport and Royal Center Missions were made Logans- 
port Mission. Berne was added to Decatur Mission. 

1883 — Medaryville Circuit with Laporte Mission was reformed into 
Medaryville and Laporte Mission. 

1884 — Tippecanoe Circuit was formed. 

1885 — Wanatah Mission was reformed. Rochester Circuit was 
made. Hicksville and Portland were taken up as new mis- 
sions. A mission was to be located in western Indianapolis, 
which failed to appear. 

1886 — West Point Mission was formed. Some boundaries were 
changed. 

1887 — Kendallville Circuit was divided into Wolcottville Circuit 
and Kendallville Mission. 

1888 — Cleveland, Tenn., and a class in Georgia became a mission 
field. This field had to be abandoned, because our people 
who had settled there removed to the North, and there was 
no nucleus with which to work. 

1890 — A few changes in boundaries were made. 

1891 — Wanatah and Medaryville were made Medaryville Circuit. 
Nappanee Mission was formed. Rochester and Elkhart Mis- 

34 



NEW MISSIONS, STATIONS AND CIRCUITS 

sions were made stations. Slight changes in boundaries 
were made. 

1892 — Nappanee City was to be a separate mission. 

1893 — The South Indiana Conference was reincorporated with the 
Indiana Conference. Owensboro and Rockport were consol- 
idated and named Owensboro Mission. Grayville and En- 
terprise were made into Grayville Mission. Indianapolis, 
2nd Church, was located as a mission. Elkhart, Division 
St., Station, was made a mission. Mizpah, South Bend, was 
established as a mission. Berne was made a mission. St. 
Mary's Circuit was dismembered and its classes added to 
other fields. Louisville District was made to embrace the 
former South Indiana Conference, except Brazil, which was 
added to the Indianapolis District. 

1894 — Elkhart South Side and Cumberland Missions were formed. 

1896 — Van Wert Mission was made a circuit. Cumberland Mis- 
sion discontinued. West Salem and Lancaster were made 
into West Salem Circuit. 

1897 — Conference was made into four districts. Old missions 
were consolidated and Owensboro discontinued. 

1898 — Lake Bruce and Defiance Missions were changed to circuits, 
Peru and New Harmony were taken up as new missions. 
Olney was made a station. 

1899 — Old circuits and missions were reformed. 

1900 — Paulding Mission was formed. Twin Lakes named Culver 
Circuit. 

1901 — Some boundaries changed. Medaryville was named San 
Pierre. Elkhart South Side and New Harmony were dis- 
continued as missions. Beulah Chapel in South Bend was 
added to N. Liberty. 

1902 — Bremen, Ft. Wayne Bethel and Urbana were made stations. 
Young People's Alliance mission at Kokomo was launched. 

1903 — Syracuse was made a mission. N. Liberty was changed to 
West South Bend Mission. Yellow River Mission to Bremen 
Mission. Mt. Carmel was made a station. 

1904 — Grand Victory, Union Center and St. Paul were made into 
Cavett (now Scott) Mission. Vera Cruz was renamed Linn 
Grove. Elkhart South Side and South Bend Beulah were 
made a mission. 

1905 — Cavett Mission was named Scott. Ridgeville with Emmetts- 
ville was made Emmettsville Mission. 

35 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1906 — Bethel in Elkhart was organized and with Salem of Misha- 
waka Circuit was constituted a mission, called Bethel. Day- 
ton Wayne Avenue and Berne were made stations. 

1907 — Olney Mission and West Salem Circuit were made stations. 
Hicksville was discontinued as a separate mission. 

1908 — Spikerville, now Wabash Circuit, was newly formed. Bound- 
aries were changed. Second Young People's Alliance mis- 
sion was taken up in Ft. Wayne and named Crescent Ave. 

1909 — Gary was to be taken up, but proved to be inexpedient. Cal- 
vary and Salem of Defiance Circuit were made to form De- 
fiance Circuit, and the remaining classes. Defiance Mission. 
Ohio City Circuit was formed. 

1910 — Lakeville and Chattanooga Missions were formed. Lydick 
was added to Beulah South Bend. St. Peter's was made a 
station. Mt. Carmel was again made a station. Ft. Recov- 
ery was named Portland Circuit. 

1911 — South Kokomo Mission was formed. A new mission was lo- 
cated in Celina City. Kendallville became a station. Avilla 
and Garret a mission. 

1912 — Paradise and Trout Creek classes were transferred from 
the Michigan Conference and added to Bethel Elkhart. No- 
blesville City was discontinued, 

1913 — Culver society was made a station, Hopewell, a Presbyte- 
rian society, was added, to be served with Avilla. Bippus 
and Ridgeville Missions were formed into circuits. Camp 
Creek and Altamont were consolidated. Brazil City was 
made a mission. Evansville Mission was made a station. 

1914 — Markle was made a station. Zion, near Markle, a separate 
field. A new mission was launched in Evansville City. 

1915 — Rochester Circuit was formed from Jerusalem, Zion, Grand 
View and Pleasant Valley from Culver Circuit. Hicksville 
and Defiance Mission were made into Hicksville and Defiance 
Circuit. Trinity from Wolcottville was attached to Water- 
loo and called Waterloo Mission. Berne Circuit was formed 
from Vera Cruz appointment of Linn Grove, Salem from 
Decatur and the Chattanooga Circuit. Cambridge City was 
taken up as a mission. 



36 



CONFERENCE CHURCH DEBT 



The Conference Church Debt 

N. B. — TJiis debt Jias no reference to the current debt made by the 
purcJiase of Oakivood Park and its infiprovennents. 

Like a mill-stone hanged about the neck, the enormous church 
debt hung about the neck of the Conference. Progress was an 
impossibility so long as the weight remained, and retrogression 
seemed inevitable. Already in the year 1874, every traveling 
preacher was assessed $5.00 to meet the accruing interest on the 
debt, which was growing at an enormous rate. 

The debt was created in the following manner: — When new 
missions were launched, demanding church and parsonage build- 
ings, the Conference got beneath the project, borrowed the money 
and advanced it for the mission in question. If the project failed, 
as many of them did, the burden rested upon the Conference. Lou- 
isville Zion project and that of Cincinnati will furnish concrete 
illustrations, the one case, Louisville Zion, where the investment 
proved a success, and the other, that of Cincinnati, which proved a 
dismal failure. 

Louisville Zion Church Project. — A committee, consisting of 
Melchior Mayer, Jos. Fisher and John Fuchs, was appointed in 
1866 to look after the work in Louisville, in view of permanently 
locating a mission there and securing a church property. The com- 
mittee reported that the prospects were exceedingly good, that a 
membership of 40 was already in hand, and the indications for 
future growth flattering. There was a church building, located on 
Walnut St., just east of Campbell, in which they had been holding 
services, which was for sale, and the committee recommended that 
the Conference borrow the money and purchase the same. Fur- 
thermore, the committee recommended, that since the property 
could be purchased much cheaper by paying cash for it, that the 
same be done, and as much money be raised on the field during the 
j^ear as possible. The report was adopted, and the committee con- 
tinued with instructions to purchase the same. The committee met 
at Louisville in October, 1866, with the intention of purchasing the 
property; however, Mr. F. Schmidt now refused to sell it at the 
price offered, $5,000, claiming that he had received an offer of 
$6,000. A careful search of the city was made for another build- 
ing which might be bought, rented or merely used as a place of 
worship. Failing in this, it was considered advisable to purchase 
said church from Mr. Schmidt. It was finally secured for the sum 

37 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

of $5,500, including a parsonage on the same lot. Some necessary 
improvements were made, and all financed by the Conference. 

The movement was a success from the very beginning, and 
had all the undertakings of the Conference in this line panned out 
as this one, there never would have been any Conference debt to 
hinder and harass. But, alas! too often, where intentions and 
even indications were as good as those in Louisville, they ended in 
dismal failure, and if the Conference had not ceased this method 
of procedure, bankruptcy would have been the logical result. 

At Cinciniiati , in 1868, there was an indebtedness of $3,128 
resting upon the mission church, and Conference ordered the 
amount to be borrowed for one year, at reasonable interest, only 
to experience that year after year the indebtedness increased. A 
special committee was appointed to look after the finances of this 
church, and also to determine the feasibility of relocating. In 
1871, twenty-nine preachers obligated themselves to pay $50 each 
toward the indebtedness of the Cincinnati church, but as the years 
to follow only saw the debt increase, the project was abandoned, 
and the property sold, and the Conference was wiser, but not richer, 
by the transaction. The church in Muncie was sold for the same 
purpose. 

In 1876, the Conference indebtedness reached the enormous 
sum of $6,000. In '78, it was $9,000, and each minister was as- 
sessed $15 to meet the heavy interest. For a number of years the 
preachers had been paying $5 and $10 apiece for this purpose. 

It was painfully evident that if Conference is ever to do any 
aggressive work, she must rid herself of this burden, and forestall 
any such experience in the future. Consequently, in 1880, J. K. 
Troyer was elected to collect funds in the Conference toward 
liquidating the debt. The effort was only a partial success. In 
'86, the Laporte and Vandalia churches were sold and proceeds 
applied to the indebtedness. In 1901, in view of the 50th anniver- 
sary of the Conference, which was to be held at the next session, 
it was decided to celebrate this semi-centennial by liquidating the 
debt. Every minister assumed a commendable amount, the mini- 
mum for an elder being $25, for a deacon $15, and $10 for a pro- 
bationer in service. The total amount subscribed by the preachers 
was $1,900. J. M. Haug was then appointed as special Conference 
collector for this purpose, who spent the entire year in canvassing 
pledges throughout the Conference, Everything possible was done 
to make this debt a thing of the past. Printed appeals were sent 
out, pastors were urged to press the matter, and any preacher 
failing to do his utmost in the cause was to be held accountable for 

38 



CONFERENCE CHURCH DEBT 

neglect. Two thousand Conference picturewS, containing the like- 
nesses of the original Indiana Conference, together with its pre- 
siding Bishop, and those in active service in 1901 with the presid- 
ing Bishop, were printed, and every lay member who paid $5 
toward the Conference debt received a picture, gratis, those paying 
$2 received one for 25 cents, and those giving $1 received one for 
50 cents. None were to be sold for less than $1.50. The many 
pictures that even now grace Evangelical homes within the bounds 
of the Indiana Conference evidence the interest taken in this proj- 
ect. At last this great impediment w^as removed, the Conference 
breathed more freely, and was in condition to take up the work 
of expansion in an aggressive manner. 



39 



INDIANA CONFERENCE— 1901 




14. S. II. Baumgaitncr 

15. Thos. Finkbeiner 
Ki. J. O. Hosier 

17. S. S. Albert 

18. E. J. Nitsche 

19. L. S. Fisher 
•20. W. S. Tracy 



21. James Wnles 

22. W. G. Braecklv 

23. H. H. Reinoehi 

24. F. Walmer 

25. P. L. Browns 
2fi. J. W. Feller 
27. E. Q. Laiuleman 



28. M. L. Scheidler 

29. C. D. l{iggenl)erf 

30. A. J. Wiesjahn 

31. S. C. Cramer 

32. F. F. McClure 

33. E. Werner 



40 



INDIANA CONFERENCE— 1901 




34. D. S. Oakes 

35. J. H. Evans 

36. D. E. Martz 

37. H. Schleucher 

38. J. E. Stoops 

39. J. J. Wise 

40. L. Nowinan 



41. .v. 15. Ilaist 

42. W. H. Mvgrant 

43. J. M. Smith 

44. C. H. Burgener 

45. J. W. Metzner. 

46. E. E. Greiner 

47. S. I. Zechiel 



4S. 1). K. Zechiel 
4!t. J. H. Rilling 
51). n. B. Koenig 

51. W. II. Freshley 

52. L. J. Ehrhardt 
oH. C. M. Pierce 



41 



INDIANA CONFERENCE— 1901 




42 



INDIANA CONFERENCE— 1901 




INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Semi-Centennial Anniversary of the Indiana 
Conference 

As the Indiana Conference was approaching her fiftieth birth- 
day, preparations began to be made to properly celebrate the same. 
The session of 1900 appointed the Presiding Elders and the Branch 
President of the Young People's Alliance as a committee to make 
proper arrangements for the same. It was decided at the session 
of 1901 to liquidate the Conference indebtedness (which see), as 
one feat in the celebration. The other arrangements for the festi- 
val were as follows : — On Thursday evening of the coming session, 
in 1902, a special jubilee service is to be held, presided over by the 
Bishop, and opened with a suitable praise service. A brief histori- 
cal sketch of the work of the Evangelical Association within the 
bounds of the Conference was to be given by S. H. Baumgartner. 
Five-minute addresses on "Pioneer Days" by older members of 
Conference. An address by A. S. Fisher on "Present Advantages 
and Hindrances in Comparison with the Times of our Pioneers," 
was to follow. As Bishop J. J. Esher had done faithful pioneer 
work within the bounds of this Conference prior to its formation, 
and was instrumental at the General Conference of 1851 in bring- 
ing the Indiana Conference into being, a special invitation was ex- 
tended him to be present and participate in the festivity. Like- 
wise the three charter members that still remained were cordially 
invited to attend and participate. 

The occasion was duly celebrated by the liquidation of the 
Conference debt, and by the holding of a great jubilee service at 
the 1902 session, which met at South Bend 1st Church. Bishop 
Thomas Bowman presided over the special service, and began with 
a good praise meeting. The rest of the program was carried out 
as had been planned, with the exception of the part to be taken by 
Bishop J. J. Esher, who, on account of infirmities, found it impos- 
sible to be present. The three charter members, M. W. Steffey, 
who was a constant member of the Conference, J. Keiper, then a 
member of the Illinois Conference of the United Evangelical 
Church, and Bernhard Ruh, who was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, but who returned to the Evangelical Association 
at this session, were present and added greatly to the interest of 
the occasion, and were themselves greatly blessed by the things 
they saw and heard. 

D. S. Oakes presented the following jubilee song, which was 
sung with vigor: 

44 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 

Jubilee Song 

Melody : "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" 

We sing- our natal day, 
Which God in his good way 

Our fathers gave: 
Our Conference to frame, 
In which to spread his fame, 
To glorify his name 

And souls to save. 

Ind'ana Conference 

Is not a child of chance, 

But God's own plan. 
'Tis fifty years agone 
Since he the work begun 
Through men of brain and brawn, 

The brave "Thirteen" ! 

Behold them as they go 
Forth seed of truth to sow, 

Pioneer band : 
They lift the standard high ; 
They Satan's hosts defy; 
They raise the battle-cry, 

Throughout the land. 

God gave them zeal and will, 
God gave them strength and skill, 

True fortitude. 
Fearless of drift and mud ; 
Fearless of heat and cloud ; 
Fearless of storm and flood. 

Dauntless they stood. 

Eager for souls of men, 
Through trackless wood and fen, 

They made their way. 
God heard their earnest prayer; 
Granted their heart's desire 
With many souls as hire 

In the great day. 
45 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

We reap fruit of their toils ; 
We share some of their spoils ; 

Grateful be we ! 
Their works let's imitate ! 
Their spirit emulate ! 
So can we celebrate, 

True jubilee. 

Be Israel's God our boast; 
He led a conquering host, 

Jehovah Jah ! 
Be he our sun and shield ! 
Then every foe must yield, 
And we possess the field ; 

Halleluiah! 

And when beneath the sun 
Our work for him is done. 

He'll bid us come, 
To dwell with him in light ; 
With all his armies bright. 
We'll sing with hosts in white 

Our Harvest Home. 



A Child of Insomnia 

BY REV. D. S. OAKES 



Born During Semi-Ccmtennial Anniversary Session at South Bend, 
Indiana, on the Niglit of April 10, 1902 

Last night, as I lay on my bed, 
Strange thoughts ran rampant through my head. 
And then the more I tried to sleep 
The less I them in check could keep ; 
To rein them in I tried my best. 
But they ran on "like all possessed." 
And then I saw the Conference 
Like panorama to my eyes : 
The Bishop sat with smiling phiz 
Upon that chairman's chair of his ; 
He listened here, he listened there, 
If any "motion" he might hear; 
And if a timid one he'd catch. 
He'd "put the question" with dispatch. 

46 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 

The secretaries sat around 

Their tables, looking most profound ; 

There sat John Henry, chief of all, 

In front of him sat Tom the tall ; 

In fact a pair that can't be beat. 

And that's the long and sJioii of it. 

They can't be beat in this I ween, 

By showing color in their mien ; 

For when they think thcifrc "getting whacks" 

They are just like two great jumping jacks. 

And Leo J. sat there atween 

The other two, and looked serene, 

Until some funny thing he'd hear, 

And then he laughed from ear to ear. 

His name is fierce, "Lion," that's it, 

But lion nature? Not a bit. 

But to put things in "Sharman," you just wait. 

If he hears a thing he's "got him sthrait." 

Then the statisticians, my, oh, my! 
How they make the figures fly ! 
Their chief looked wise as any owl. 
And the others "made things howl" ; 
In work, I mean, and when they're done 
I'll bet a burnt cookie they'll have the fun 
To make their figures harmonize : 
('Twould surely be a great surprise!) 

Back at the window sat Henry and John ; 

Jolly good fellows, and chock full of fun. 

But "nary" a word from morning till night 

Did they utter in Conf'rence to show they were bright. 

They're "sharp as a tack" if they'd but show it, 

But if I didn't tell, no one would know it. 

But now I will leave them alone in their glory 

To sit there in silence until they are hoary. 

The fellow in front of them thinks he is smart; 
If he were younger I'd call him upstart. 
He often arises to speak a big word. 
But when he has said it, 'tis thin as a board. 
Who is he? you ask. Well, 'tween me and thee, 
That great, gawky gump is simply me. 

47 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Now on the first bench what did I see? 
Three colleagues of mine, that M'ere, or now be: 
"Three Graces" in pants, I'll call them ! I guess 
That's right; if it ain't I'll confess 
"I'm swamtoggled," so I'll give each a name : 
Podgy George, Poitly John, Lanky Sam, 
Now you will know them, if never before ; 
Grand men, all (when asleep, if they don't snore). 
"Three Graces." 

But as I looked farther aback, my. 

What did I see depicted on faces? 

Wit, wisdom, eloquence and power : 

Wonder the world wasn't taken before ! 

My vision was dimmed now, but as I looked over 

T'other side of the house, I still could discover 

A few prominent ones, who prominent were. 

Not for greatness of intellect nor abundance of hair: 

But mountains of flesh, they towered abroad 

Instead of upivards, which would be the right road. 

There were David and Daniel, John, Philip and James, 

And various others with unscriptural names ; 

Some ruddy, some pale, some long and some short, 

With heads, faces, bodies, of every sort. 

There were stout and bow-legged, lank and slim ; 

Some seed, unkempt, some dudishly trim ; 

Some whiskered, some mustached, some with clean-shaven face. 

Every one sitting sedate in his place; 

They seemed so devoted, each one and all. 

As if they were subjects "of the Divine call." 

My mental steeds now have ended their race, 

I pillowed my head to sleep a brief space. 

An hour or two I spent in repose. 

Then called to my breakfast I quickly arose : 

I hastily dressed, my breakfast I ate. 

And got into Conference just five minutes late. 



48 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 



The following interesting statistics, prepared by S. H. Baum- 
gartner, indicate the progress made in this half century : 



■apv 
-oap qaBS Suunp pa^nqujuoo 
AeuoH A'jBuoissijv; }0 ■junouiy 


if 

6,378.44 
40,017.91 
45,753.03 
42,625.92 
84.176.20 

$218,951.50 


•apBoap H0B3 }0 pua aqj ;b sjb 
-foiios jooqos-.'LBpung jo jaqiuu^s^ 


2,000 
5,080 
5,639 
8,375 
12,867 
33,961 


•apBoap qoBB jo pua aqj 
^B siooqos-A'Bpung }o aaqiun^ 


• -o o CO >o 05 <n 

• la o a) i-( ^ o 


•orqBA po;Bun;s3 Jiaqx 


if 

23,950.00 
23,125.00 
30,125.00 
62,825.00 

$148,650.00 


■apBoap qoB3 jo pua 
aqj ;b S3SBU0S.IBJ jo jaqiunx 


• O CO -* C= 'CS CO 

• 0-1 CO C-l IM ^ 1.-3 


•aiqBA pa^Buiijsa Jioqx 


• CO io CO Ol O 7-^ 

: rH ,-^ Ol CO ~ 


■apBoap qoBa jo pua 
aq:} ;b saqojnqQ jo jaqmnx 


• CO OC r- O -* 5-, 

• o c: = .- o oi 

^ rH i-H o 


•apBoap qoBa Suijnp uoijBxa.i 
[BDoi ut paip oq.tt saa^siuiK 


• • -C -r r^ Ol O 

• • rH rH CO' 


•apBoap qoBa Suunp ^jjo.u 
BApaE ui paip oq'A\ saajsiuiK 


;rH^O,C0=. C. 


•apBoap qoBa Suianp 
sjapia pauiBpjo JO jaqiunx 


•OlOl^tOlCO ^ 


•apBoap qaBa Suunp 
SUOOBBQ pauiBp.io JO jaqiuiix 


• CO HlH Ol rH fM oi 
. Ol ?7 CO CO Hj* -c 


•apc.^ap qoBa Suunp 
qoEajd 0} pasuaoq .laqiunx 


• CO ~. CO O CO l^ 

• CO O Hji .^ O Ht- 


•apBoap qaBa jo pua aqj 
^B >iJo.v\ aAipB UI saajsiuiK 


;A CO -S< CO ■* t- o 


•apBoap 
qoBa Suunp paip oq.u saaquiajt 


180 
591 
762 
789 
241 
3,563 


■apEaap qoBa jo 
pua aqj :jb sjaquiaj^ jo aaqiunx 


1,285 
4,067 
5,909 
5,(i93 
6,906 
10,549 
34,409 


•apBoap 
qoBa JO} suoissa.MV }0 .laqumx 


164 
4,642 
6,137 
8,141 
7,625 
10,302 
37,347 


■ipBoap qoBa 
joj suoisadAuu.) JO .laquiux 


129 
3,328 
4,771 
6,207 
7,365 
10,366 
32,037 


< 

E 
>• 


1 852 Oi'gani/.cil witli 

1862 

1872 

1892 

Total in 50 Vc:ns 



02 

=3 3 



O C K 



SH5 






^--C o ^ 



!0>rH.*C;00000 



CD tH lO r^ t 



.0010000 



S ca o C.CJ 

- ° T c 



6 A ° « ^ -=. 

ta s&H-Sl:-* 

, -r, sc^ ~ £>- 






^^5-S« 



^ < :5 ^ c? ?'. Z : 






-, O T -^ r 






<.2 ■= -2 ~ 



O Ol 
> X UO 
)(Mr- X 
< O . rH 

; 5 I C .U 



o c — c •.= 



-■= c-^ 






5- 4, aj .i '^ ^ 



2.2 o g 



49 



>c i. •^.--■■^.■'.~~'. 



=3 £ w " £" =«= - 

c 'H 's •-■ '= " .s S ° "^ ° .- 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



The Presiding Elders and their Districts 



A.rlen, H 

Baumgarlner, C, C 
Baumgartner, S. H 



Berger, J 

Bretsch, Phil. . 
Dickover, Sam. 
Evans, J. H. . . 
Fisher, H. L. . 
Fisher, Joseph 
Fisher, L. S. . 
Fuchs, John . , 
Geist, August 
Glaus, Christ. 
Hansing, C. F. 

Haug, John M. 



Hoehn, M 

Kiplinger, E. L. 



1899-1902; Louisville, 
1902-04 ; Indianapolis, 



Krueger, M 

Mayer, Melchior 
Martz, D. E 



Metzner, J. W. . 
Hosier, John 
Oakes, D. S. ... 



Platz, G. G 

Roederer, Geo. . . 
Schafer, A. B. . . . 
Speicher, Dan. . . . 
Steffey, M. . W. . . . 



Wise, J. J. 



.Indianapolis, 1889-02. 

.Indianapolis, 1879-82; Elkhart, 1883-86. 

.Elkhart, 1899-02, 1905-06, 1915; Ft. Wayne, 

1903-04, 1912-14; Evansville, 1909; Indianapo- 
lis, 1910-11. 
. Indianapolis, 1885-88. 
.Wabash, 1857-58. 

.St. Joseph, 1852-54; Wabash, 1855-56. 
.Ft. Wayne, 1895-96; Elkhart, 1897-98. 
.Elkhart, 1871; Evansville, 1875. 
.St. Joseph, 1859-62; White River, 1863-66. 
.Indianapolis, 1907-10, 
. Indianapolis, 1871-74; Olney, 1875. 
.Ft. Wayne, 1887-90. 
.Wabash, 1852-54. 
.Indianapolis, 1893-95, 

1896-97. 
. Louisville, 1893-95, 

1896. 
.Wabash, 1863-66. 
.Elkhart, 1872-74, 1879-82; Ft. Wayne, 1875- 

78; Indianapolis, 1883-84. 
.Elkhart, 1867-70; Indianapolis, 1875-78; Ft. 

Wayne, 1879-82. 
.White River, 1867-68; Indianapolis, 1869-70; 

Evansville, 1871-74. 
.Elkhart, 1891-94; Kendallville, 1895-98; Ft. 

Wayne, 1905-07. 

.Elkhart, 1911-14; Ft. Wayne, 1915. 
.Elkhart, 1907-10. 
.Ft. Wayne, 1883-86, 1892-94, 1899-02; Elkhart, 

1887-90, 1895-96; Indianapolis, 1897-98, 1903- 

05. 
.St. Joseph, 1855-58; White River, 1859-62; 

Wabash, 1867-70. 
.Louisville, 1898-1901. 
.White River, 1856-58. 
.Louisville, 1905-07; Evansville, '08. 
.Wabash, 1859-62; St. Joseph, 1863-64; Elkhart, 

1865-66, 1875-78 ; Ft. Wayne, 1871-74. 
.Ft. Wayne, 1908-1911; Indianapolis, 1912-15. 
50 



PRESIDING ELDER DISTRICTS AND THE ELDERS 

Presiding Elder Districts, Together with the Fields 
of Labor, and the Presiding Elders that served them 

(Fo)- dates whcm the Elders served them, see above list) 

Elkhart District— (1866-15), Akron, '88, '01-15; Benton, '72- 
78; Berne, '93-94; Bremen (Yellow River Circuit), '66-90, 
'97-15; Bippus, '05; Bunker Hill, '87-90, '11-13; Cleveland, 
Tenn., '88-90 ; Chattanooga, Tenn., '89-90 ; Common Center, 
'12-15; Culver Circuit (Twin Lakes), '68-15; Culver Sta- 
tion, '13-15; Danville, '68-69; Dayton, Wayne, '92; Decatur, 
'91; Defiance Circuit, '66-70; DeKalb Circuit, '66-71; Elk- 
hart Circuit, '66-73; Elkhart, Division, '68-90, '97-03; Elk- 
hart, Watchtower, '74-76, '79-86; '91-03; Elkhart, 1st, '04- 
15; Elkhart, Bethel, '06-15; Elkhart, South Side, '93-00, 
'05-15; Ft. Wayne, Bethel, '67-70; Fulton Circuit, '66-80; 
Gilead, '73; Huntington Circuit, '66-70, '91-96; Kendallville, 
'91-94; Kokomo, '11-13; Lake Bruce (Leiter's Ford), '88- 
15; Lakeville, '10-15; Laporte, '76-85; Logansport, '74-90, 
'94, '97-12, '11-15; Markle, '92-94; Mishawaka Circuit, '72- 
15; M^'shawaka Mission, '83-87; Nappanee Station, '91-96, 
'00-10; Nappanee Mission, '11-15; Nappanee Circuit (Bour- 
bon, Yellow River Mission, Bremen Mission), '01-15; New 
Paris, '72-86, '91-96, '05-15; North Liberty, '66, '80, '01, '06- 
07; North Webster, '91-96; Peru, '98, '01-02, '11-15; Pulaski, 
'66-67; Rochester Circuit, '81-00, '09-15; Rochester Station, 
'85-15; Royal Center, '81-82, '90-92, '96-15; St. Mary's, '66- 
70; St. Louis, '66; Silver Lake, '72; South Bend Circuit, 
'66-72; South Bend, 1st, '66-90, '97-15; South Bend, Miz- 
pah, '93-15; South Bend, Grace, '04-15; West South Bend 
Circuit, '03; Spring Grove, '68-70; Star City, '11; Syracuse, 
'02-10, '14-15; San Pierre (Medaryville), '66, '68-72, '83-90, 
'97-15; Tippecanoe, '84, '01; Urbana, '92-94, '03-04, '11-15; 
Wabash, '66-67, '87-90, '97-98, '11-15; Wabash Circuit, '11- 
15; Wanatah, '73-82, '85-90, '11-15; Warsaw, '77-78; Water- 
loo, '91 ; West Point, '87-88; Waupecong, '66; Waterloo, '91; 
Wolcottville, '91. 

Presiding Elders that have served this district are the 
follovring: M. W. Steffey, M. Krueger, H. L. Fisher, E. L. 
Kiplinger, M. W. Steffey, E. L. Kiplinger, C. C. Baumgart- 
ner, C. F. Hansing, S. H. Baumgartner, J. 0. Mosier, J. W. 
Metzner, S. H. Baumgartner. 

51 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

EvANSViLLE District— ('71-75, '08-10), Altamont, '08-11; Brazil, 
'73-75, '08-11; Carmi, '71-75, '08-11; Camp Creek, '08-11; 
Cincinnati, '75; Enterprise, '08-11; Evansville, '71-75, '08- 
11; Elberfeld (Warrenton), '71-75, '08-11; Grayville, '08- 
11; Huntingburg, '71-75, '08-11; Lancaster, '08-11; Louis- 
ville, Trinity, '08-11; Louisville, Zion, '75, '08-11; Louisville, 
West Side Mission, '75; Marshall, '71-75; '08-11; Mound 
City and Cairo, '74-75; Mt. Carmel, '71-75, '08-11; Olney 
Circuit, '71-75; Olney Station, '08-11; Rockport, '73-75, '08- 
11; Shelby, '72-75; St. Louis, '74-77; Vandalia, '71-75; West 
Salem, '71-75. 

Presiding Elders that have served this district are the 
following: Melchior Mayer, H. L. Fisher, D, D. Speicher, 
S. H. Baumgartner. 

Ft. Wayne District— ('71-96, '99-15), Avilla, '11-15; Berne, '89, 
'99-15; Berne Circuit (Chattanooga), '10-15; Bippus (West 
Point), '90, '99-04, '06-15; Bremen, '93-96; Bunker Hill, '95- 
96; Celina Circuit, '82-86, '91-96, '99-02, '05-15; Celina 
Mission, '11-15; Cicero, '71-72; Clear Creek, '89; Danville, 
'72; Dayton, 1st, '14-15; Dayton, Wayne, '14-15; Decatur, 
'72-77, '81, '90-94, '99-06, '08-15; Defiance Circuit, '71-94, 
'99-15; Defiance Mission, '09-15; DeKalb, '72; Edon, '07; 
Edgerton, '75-94, '99-03, '08-15; Elkhart, Division St., '95- 
96 ; Elkhart, Watchtower, '77-78, '87-90 ; Ft. Wayne, Bethel, 
'71-86, '93-96, '99-15; Ft. Wayne, Crescent, '10-15; Green- 
ville, '11-15; Hicksville, '85-94, '99-15; Huntington, '71-90, 
'99-15 ; Kendallville, '73-90, '99-15 ; Logansport, '91-95-96 ; 
Markle, '99-15; Markle Circuit, '14-15; Newville, '71-86; 
New Paris, '87-90, '99-15; Noblesville, '73-74, '91, '95-96; 
North Webster, '79-90, '99-13; Ohio City, '09; Paulding, '00- 
03; Payne, '91-94; Phillipsburg, '11-15; Portland Circuit 
(Ft. Recovery), '87-94, '05-15; Portland Mission, '87-94, 
'05-07, '11-15; Ridgeville, '11-15; Scott (Cavett), '04-15; 
Spring Grove, '71-79; South Bend, 1st, '95-96; San Pierre 
(Medaryville), '95-96; St. Mary, '71-86, '91-92, '02; St. 
Peters, '10-15; Syracuse, '04, '11-13; Urbana, '91; Van 
Wert, '71-86, '91-96, '99-15; Vera Cruz (Linn Grove), '91- 
96, '99-15; Wanatah, '95; Wabash Circuit, '11-15; Water- 
loo, '73-94, '99-15; Wabash, '72-81, '92, '95-96; Waupecong, 
'71 ; Warsaw, '71 ; Wolcottville, '87-90, '92-94, '99-15 ; Win- 
chester, '95-96. 

52 



PRESIDING ELDER DISTRICTS AND THE ELDERS 

The Preskliyig Elders that have served this district are 
the following: M. W. Steffey, E. L. Kiplinger, M. Krueger, 
D. S. Oakes, A. Geist, D. S. Oakes, J. H. Evans, D. S. Oakes, 
S. H. Baumgartner, D. Martz, J. J. Wise, S. H. Baiimgart- 
ner, J. W. Metzner. 

Indianapolis District— ('69-15), Altamont, '95-97, '11-14; At- 
lanta, '10; Brazil, '93-02, '11-15; Bremen, '91-92; Bunker 
Hill (Waiipecong), '69-70, '72-86, '92-95, '97-10, '14-15; 
Cambridge City, '15; Camp Creek, '95-97, '11-15; Carmi, 
'11-15; Celina Circuit, '70-81, '88-90, '97-98, '03-04; Cicero, 
'69-70, '12-15; Cincinnati, '69-74; Cleveland, Tenn., and 
Chattanooga, '91; Cumberland, '94-95; Dayton, 1st, '69-13; 
Dayton, Wayne, '88-13; Decatur, '07; E. Germantown, '69- 
15; Emmettsville, '02-05; Elberfeld, '11-15; Enterprise, '11- 
15; Evansville Station, '11-15; Evansville Mission, '14-15; 
Elkhart, Division St., '91-95; Ft. Wayne, Bethel, '87-92, 
'97-98; Grayville, '11-15; Greenville, '69-70, '72-80, '86-89; 
Huntingburg, '11-15; Indianapolis, 1st, '69-15; Indianapo- 
lis, 2nd, '93-15; Indianapolis, Grace, '00-15; Indianapolis, 
West Side Mission, '71-80; Julietta, '76-92; Kokomo, '02- 
10, '14-15; Lancaster, '11-13; Logansport, '03-10; Louisville, 
Trinity, '11-15; Louisville, Zion, '69-74, '11-15; Louisville, 
West Side Mission, '72-74; Marshall, '96-97, '11-15; Mont- 
gomery, '69-91, 93; Mt. Carmel, '11-15; Newville, '69-70, '87- 
90; Noblesville, '75-90, '92-95, '97-12 ; Olney, '11-15 ; Peru. '03- 
10; Phillipsburg, '02-10; Portland Circuit (Ft. Recovery), 
'81-84, '85-86, '97-04; Portland Mission, '99-04, '08-15; 
Richmond, '69-70, '73-79, '83-90; Ridgevilje, '08-10; Rock- 
port, '11-15; Royal Center, '07-10; San Pierre (Medary- 
ville), '91-95; South Bend, 1st, '91-95; Spikerville, '08-10; 
Star City, '10; St. Mary, '87-90; Sulphur Springs, '69-70; 
Terre Haute, '95-02; Urbana, '99-02, '05; Van Wert, '69- 
70, '87-90; Vera Cruz, '97-98; Wabash, '82-86, '91, '93-95, 
'99-13; West Salem Circuit, '13-15; West Salem, '11-15; 
West Point, '86 ; Winchester, '80-95, '97. 

The Presiding Elders that have served this district are 
the following: M. Mayer, J. Fuchs, M. Krueger, C. C. 
Baumgartner, E. L, Kiplinger, J. Berger, H. Arlen, C. F. 
Hansing, J. M. Haug, D. S. Oakes, C. F. Hansing, D. S. 
Oakes, C. F. Hansing, L. S. Fisher, S. H. Baumgartner, J. 
J. Wise. 

53 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Kendallville District — ('95-98), Berne, '95-98; Decatur, '95- 
98; Defiance Circuit, '95-98; Edgerton, '95-98; Hicksville, 
'95-98; Huntington, '97-98; Kendallville, '95-98; Markle, 
'95-98; Nappanee, '97-98; New Paris, '97-98; North Web- 
ster, '98; Payne, '95-98; Portland Circuit, '95-96; Portland 
Mission, '95-98; Urbana, '95-98; Van Wert, '97-98; Water- 
loo, '95-98 ; West Point, '97-98 ; Wolcottville, '95-98. 

The Presiding Elder that served this district was D. 
Martz. 

Louisville District— ('93-07), Altamont, '93, '94, '97-07; Brazil, 
'03-07 ; Camp Creek, '93, '94, '97-07 ; Carmi, '93-07 ; Elber- 
feld (Tabor), '93-07; Enterprise, '94-07; Evansville, '93- 
07; Grayville, '93-07; Huntingburg, '93-07; Lancaster, '93- 
07 ; Louisville, Trinity, '93-07 ; Louisville, Zion, '93-07 ; Mar- 
shall, '93, '94, '97-07; Mt. Carmel, '93-07; New Harmony, 
'98-00 ; Olney, '93-07 ; Owensboro, '93-96 ; Rockport, '94-07 ; 
Terre Haute, '93, '94, '03-07 ; West Salem, '93-07. 

The Presiding Elders that have served on this district 
are these : J. M. Haug, C. F. Hansing, Geo. Roederer, J. M. 
Haug, D. D. Speicher. 

Olney District — ('75), Jonesboro, '75; Lake Creek, '75; Mar- 
shall, '75; Murphysboro, '75; Olney, '75; Shelby, '75; St. 
Louis, '75 ; Vandalia, '75 ; West Salem, '75. 

The Presiding Elder that served on this district was 
John Fuchs. 

St. Joseph District — ('52-65), Berrien, '55-63; Bainbridge, '61; 
Calhoun, '57- (Kalamazoo) -63 ; DeKalb, '52-65; Defiance 
Circuit, '59-65; Elkhart Circuit, '52-65; Fulton, '52-65; 
Huntington Circuit, '53-65; Ionia, '61-63; Medaryville 
(Portland), '64-65; Newville, '54-55, '64-65; South Bend, 
1st, '60, '63-65; South Bend Circuit, '55-65; St. Joseph, '56- 
63; St. Mary, '52-55, '64-65; Waupecong, '58-60, '63-65; 
Yellow River Circuit, '57-65. 

The Presiding Elders that have served this district are : 
S. Dickover, G. G. Platz, Joseph Fisher, M. W. Steffey. 

Wabash District— ('52-70), Carmi, '57-70; Clay County, '56-68; 
Dubois, '52-59; Evansville, '52-70; Hamilton, '52-55; Hunt- 
ingburg, '60-70; Marshall, '52-70; Mt. Carmel Circuit, '52- 

54 



PRESIDING ELDER DISTRICTS AND THE ELDERS 

68; Mt. Carmel Station, '69-70; Olney Circuit, '53-70; 
Rockport, '60, '68-70; Shelby, '67-70 ; St. Louis, '65; Vandalia, 
'58-70; Wabash, '62; West Salem, '68-70; Warrenton (El- 
berfeld), '55-70; Whitewater Circuit, '52-55. 

The Presiding Elders that served this district are as 
follows: Christian Glaus, S. Dickover, Philip Bretsch, M. 
W. Steffey, M. Hoehn, G. G. Platz. 

White River District— ('56-68), Cicero, '58-68; Cincinnati, '64- 
68; Cumberland, Tenn., '67-68; Dayton Sta., '56-68; E. Ger- 
mantown, '63-68; Greenville Cir., '59-68; Hamilton, '56; 
Huntington Cir., '59-63; Indianapolis, 1st, '56-68; Lafay- 
ette, '59; Louisville. Zion, '65-68; Miami Circuit, '56-58; 
Mississinawa, '63-65; Montgomery, '59-68; Newville, '56- 
63, '66-68; Richmond, '64-68; St. Mary, '56-63; Van Wert, 
'63-68; Wabash, '63; Waupecong, '61-62, '64-68; White- 
water Circuit, '56-62. 

The Presidi7ig Elders that have served this district are : 
A. B. Schafer, G. G. Platz, Joseph Fisher, M. Mayer. 



55 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

The Ministers That Have Served in the Indiana 

Conference, and the Fields To Which They 

Were Appointed 

Ahbreviations : — C — Circuits; M — Missions; S — Stations; P. 
E. — Presiding Elder. The numerals after the field — the years that 
were spent on that field, at a given time. The appointments served 
in the South Indiana Conferenee are not given, because they be- 
long to another Conference History. 

ACKERMAN, Wm. — Mishawaka-1, St. Mary-1, Defiance C-1, Royal 
Center-1, Huntington C-1, Payne-1, Van Wert-2, Celina C-2. 

Ade. Christian — Yellow River C-2 (Relinquished his license). 

Aegerter, a. B. — Noblesville-1, Nappanee C-3, Scott-2. 

Albert, S. S. — DeKalb-1, Fulton-1, Huntington C-1, Defiance C-1, 
Spring Grove-Danville-1, Spring Grove-1, Fulton-1, Twin 
Lakes-1, Gilead-1, E. Germantown-2, St. Mary-1, St. Mary- 
Van Wert-1, Van Wert-1, New Paris-2, Edgerton-2, Nobles- 
ville-2. Van Wert-2, Kendallville C-1, Mishawaka-3, Lake 
Bruce-1, Julietta-1, Decatur-1. 

Alspauch, M.— St. Joseph C-2, Elkliart C-1, DeKalb-1, St. Mary-1, 
Berrien-1, Fulton-1, Cicero-1. 

Arlen. H. — New Paris-1, Mishawaka-1, Rochester C-2, Logans- 
port-1, Celina C-3, Van Wert (Elected Presiding Elder at the 
beginning of this year), P. E.-5, Bremen-2. 

Arndt, J. — Portland M-1. 

Baker, E. R. — Altamont-1. 

Bartholomew, D. — Mt. Carmel-Olney-Carmi C-1, DeKalb-1, Mont- 
gomery-1, Fulton-2, Waupecong-1, Montgomery-1, Medary- 
ville-1. 

Baumgartner, C. C— Wabash M-2, Elkhart Div.-l, P. E.-8. 

Baumgartner, E. H. — Defiance M-4, Portland C-2. 

Baumgartner, S. H. — W>st Point-Wabash-1, West Point-1. Bunker 
Hill-2, Rochester S-1, Kendallville C-2, Ft. Wayne Bethel-4, 
P. E.-8, Indianapolis lst-2, P. E.-7. 

Beck, John — Vandalia-1, Warrenton-1, Brazil C-2, Elkhart Div.-l, 
Montgomery-2, Celina C-3, Bunker Hill-1. 

Beyrer, C. C— South Bend C-1, Decatur-1, Wabash-1, Van Wert-1, 
Elkhart Watchtower-1, Kendallville C-2, New Paris-2, New- 
ville-3, Wabash M-2, Dayton lst-3. 

Berger, John— Defiance-1, Olney C-1, Mt. Carmel-2, Shelby-2, 
South Bend lst-3. Missionary to Germany, South Bend 
Ist-.l, Wabash C-1, P. E.-4. 

56 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Berstecher, Geo. — Celina C-2, Murphysboro-1, South Indiana 

Conf. 
Beverly, S. — N. Webster-1. 

Blaser, Sol. — Greenville C-1 (License recalled). 
BOCKMAN, J. H. — Defiance C-1, Huntington-l, Van Wert-1, Deca- 

tur-1, New Paris-1, Mishawaka-2, N. Webster-1, Waterloo-1, 

Celina C-1, Ft. Wayne Bethel-1, Vera Cruz-1. 
BocKMAN, W. M.— Dubois-2, Mt. Carmel C-1, Marshall-1, White- 

water-2. Clay Co.-l, Warrenton-2, South Bend C-1, DeKalb-1, 

Elkhart C-1, Montgomery-1. 
Boehyer, J. — Tippecanoe-1. 
BOHLANDER, E. R. — Carmi-1, Greenville C-1, South Ind. Conf., Me- 

daryville-2. 
BOYER, C. E. — Syracuse-2, Indianapolis Grace-2, Ft. Wayne Beth- 
el-1, Ft. Wayne Crescent-2. 
Braeckly, W. G.— Huntingburg C-2, Elkhait Div.-2, Olney-1, South 

Ind. Conf .-16, South Bend lst-4, Indianapolis lst-2, Bre- 

men-4, Huntingburg-3, Louisville Zion-5, Huntingburg-2. 
Breish, J. H. — Dayton Wayne-4, Kendallville-1, Indianapolis lst-4, 

Elkhart lst-4, Dayton Wayne-3, Indianapolis lst-2. 
Bretsch, Philip — Whitewater-2, Dubois-], P. E.-2, Dayton lst-2, 

White water-1. 
Brauer, F. — Montgomery-1, Cincinnati M-2. 
Brightmire, W. H. — N. Webster-1, Kendallville C-1, N. Webster-1, 

Edgerton-1, Waterloo-1, Portland-2, Elkhart Watchtower-2, 

Dayton Wayne-2. 
Browns, P. L. — Waterloo-1, Lancaster-2, Winchester-1, Ft. Recov- 

ery-2, Wabash C-1, West Point-1, Culver-3, E. German- 

town-2, Markle-1, Kendallville-2, Waterloo-2, Waterloo- 

Hicksville-1, Wabash S-3. 
Bruckert, J.— Defiance C-1, Julietta-2, Fulton-1, N. Webster-3, 

Bunker Hill-1, St. Mary-2, Edgerton-1, Mishawaka-2, New- 

ville-2, Tabor-1, West Salem-2, Bunker Hill-2. 
Buehler, Philip— Akron-1, Royal Center-2, E. Germantown-2, 

Greenville-2, Payne-1, Defiance-2. N. Webster-2, Camp 

Creek-1, Bremen C-2, Rochester C-3, Altamont-Camp 

Creek-1. 
Burgener. C. H.— Waterloo-2, Edgerton-3, Markle-1, Wabash-1, 

Elkhart Bethel-2, Hicksville-3, Huntington-3, Syracuse-2. 
Burgener, Philip— Dubois-1, Olney C-2, Marshall C-1, St. Mary-2, 

Fulton-1, St. Joseph-1, Yellow River C-2. 
Buyer, J. L., Jr.— Noblesville-1, Cicero-1, Chattanooga-2. 

57 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Buyer, J. L., Sr. — Enterprise-1, Rockport-2, Mt. Carmel-3, Bunker 
Hill-2, Celina C-4, Linn Grove-2, San Pierre-2, Elkhart S. 
Side-5. 

Carrol, T. — Defiance C-1, Ft. Recovery-2, Berne-2, Wolcottville-2, 
New Paris-1. 

Carter, J. W. — Logansport-1, Indianapolis Grace-1, Portland M-1, 
Ridgeville-2, Logansport-1. 

Claypool, D. p. — Philipsburg-1. 

CONDO, E. E. — Elkhart C-1, Fulton-1, Spring Grove-1, Twin 
Lakes-1. 

CONDO, J. M.— Fulton-1. 

CONDO, S. S.— Elkhart C-1, St. Mary-2, Danville-1, Spring Grove-2. 

Cramer, S. C. — Defiance C-1, N, Webster-1, Logansport-3, Em- 
mettsville-1, 

Crawford, L. W. — Spring Grove-1, Danville-1 (Withdrew). 

Dassel. a. — Carmi-1. 

DiCKOVER, S. — p. E.-5. 

Dawes, Ira — Spikerville-3, Wabash C-1. 

Dill, B. F. — Waterloo-1, Huntington C-1, Edgerton-Defiance C-3, 
Van Wert-3, Ft. Recovery-1, Twin Lakes-1. 

Dustman, J. M. — Defiance C-1, Warsaw-2, Fulton-2, Decatur-3, 
Kendallville C-1, New Paris-3, Twin Lakes-2, Defiance-2, 
Urbana-1, Edgerton-1, Twin Lakes-1, Greenville M-1, Com- 
mon Center-1. 

Eastes, G. D. — Logansport-2, Greenville M-2. 

EcKHART, Geo. — South Bend C-1. 

Ehrhardt, L. J. — Montgomery-1, Winchester-2, Philipsburg-1, Ev- 
ansville lst-1, Mt. Carmel-3, Elkhart Div.-2, Bunker Hill-2, 
Celina C-2, Vera Cruz-1, Greenville M-2, Bremen C-2, Texas, 
Terre Haute-2, Marshall-Brazil-4. 

EiNSEL, E. D. — DeKalb-1, Waterloo-1, Defiance C-1, Edgerton-1, 
Spring Grove-1, Spring Grove-Danville-1, Spring Grove-1. 

Elzy, a. S.— West Point-1, Markle-2. 

Erne, F. S.— Rockport-1, Louisville Trinity-4, Portland M-2, Wa- 
bash S-4, Avilla-3. 

Evans, Ed.— St. Mary-1, Greenville C-2, Whitewater-1, E. Ger- 
mantown-1, Cincinnati-1, South Bend lst-1, E. German- 
town-2. Ft. Wayne Bethel-2. 

Evans, J. H.— Van Wert-1, Newville-1, Vera Cruz-2, P. E.-4, Ft. 
Wayne Bethel-4, Bremen-2, Dayton lst-5, South Bend lst-5, 
Kendallville-1. 

EWALD, E. C. — San Pierre-3, Terre Haute-Brazil-1, Terre Haute-4, 
Perurl. 

58 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Feller, A. W. — E. Germantown-1, Camp Creek-3, Carmi-3. 

Feller, J. W. — Altamont-3, Rockport-1, Rochester C-1, Medary- 
ville-1, San Pierre-1, Yellow River M-1, Bremen C-3, Camp 
Creek-Altamont-2, West Salem-3, Grayville-New Harmony- 
4, Elberfeld-1. 

FiNKBElNER. M. F. — Brazil-2, Cumberland, Tenn.-l. 

FiNKBElNER, Tho. — Indianapolis 2nd-3, Elkhart Div.-3, South Bend 
Mizpah-2, Prof. N. W. C. 

Fisher. A. S.— West Point-1, Wanatah-2, Celina C-3, Rochester S-3, 
Elkhart Watchtower-4, Wabash-3, Kokomo-4, Nappanee C-3, 
Mishawaka-3. 

Fisher, H. L. — Waupecong-1, Mt. Carmel-Olney C-1, Evansville 
lst-2, Huntingburg C-2, Warrenton-2, P. E.-l, Evansville 
lst-2, Indianapolis lst-1, P. E.-l, South Ind. Conf. 

Fisher, H. W. — Cleveland, Tenn.-l, Huntington C-1. 

Fisher, Jos.— Elkhart C-1, Mt. Carmel C-2, Evansville lst-1, Mt. 
Carmel C-1, South Bend C-2, P. E.-8, Elkhart Div.-2, New 
Paris-2, Elkhart Watchtower-2, Decatur-2, Ft. Wayne Beth- 
el-2, Indianapolis lst-3. Ft. Wayne Bethel-3, Huntington M-2, 
Kendallville-2, Logansport-3. 

Fisher, I. B. — Huntington-3, St. Mary-3, Huntington-3, Waterloo-1, 
Portland M-1, Oregon, Louisville Zion-3 (Withdrew), 

Fisher, L. S. — Rochester M-2, Portland C-2, Oregon, South Bend- 
Mizpah-3, Elkhart lst-3, P. E.-4, Elkhart lst-3. 

Flurkey, W. H. — E. Germantown-2, Defiance-Hicksville-1. 

Franzen, Ger. — Dubois-1. 

Freehafer, G. W.— St. Mary-2, Noblesville-1, Kendallville C-2, Wa- 
terloo-2. 

Freshley, W. H. — Paulding-1, Hicksville-3, Waterloo-2, Edon-1, 
Edgerton-2, Kendallville-5, South Bend lst-1. 

FUCHS, J. (Fox)— St. Mary-1, Newville-1, South Bend C-1, South 
Bend-Berrien C-1, Mt. Carmel-Carmi-Olney C-1, Olney C-1, 
Dubois-1, Huntingburg C-1, Evansville lst-2, Dayton lst-2, 
Indianapolis lst-2, Newville-2, Elkhart Div.-2, P. E.-5, South 
Ind. Conf. 

Fox, D. F.— Mishawaka M-1. 

Garl, David — Elkhart C-1, Berrien-1. 

Geisel. F.— DeKalb-1, St. Mary-1, Yellow River C-1, Waupecong-2, 
DeKalb-1, St. Mary-1 (Withdrew). 

Geist, August — Benton-1, Bremen-1, Fulton-1, Waterloo-2, Elk- 
hart Watchtower-2, Noblesville-1, Huntington C-2, N. Web- 
ster-1, Edgerton-2, P. E.-4, New Paris-Nappanee-1, New 
Paris-2, Urbana-2, Van Wert-1, Huntington-1, Mishawaka-2, 

59 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Urbana-4, Rochester-1, Logansport-2, Akron-1, Philips- 
burg-2, Waterloo-Hicksville-2, Waterloo-1. 

Geist, C. E.— Markle-2, Mt. Carmel-5, Terre Haiite-2. 

Glaus, Christian— P. E.-3, Elkhart C-1, Whitewater-1, Miami C-2, 
Newville-2, Huntingburg C-2, Warrenton-2, Mt, Carmel C-1, 
Olney C-2, South Bend lst-2. Yellow River C-2, Bremen-1, 
Newville-2. 

GOCKER, H. — Phillipsbiirg-3, West Salem-Lancaster-1, West Sa- 
lem-1, Grayville-4, Elberfeld-2, West Salem-2, Washington. 

GOETZ, Peter— Whitewater-2, Elkhart C-1, St. Mary-1, Miami C-1. 

GOMER, J. M. — Fulton-1, Berrien-1, Calhoun-2, South Bend C-1, In- 
dianapolis lst-1, Dayton lst-2, Collector-1, Mt. Carmel-1, 
Ft. Wayne Bethel-2, Indianapolis W. End M-2, South Bend 
lst-3, Laporte-2, Dayton lst-2. Missionary to Texas-8. 

Greiner, E. E. — Hicksville-2, Markle-2, Linn Grove-3, Wolcott- 
ville-2, Nappanee C-2. 

Griesemer, I. H. — Mt. Carmel-1, Louisville Trinity-2, Carmi-3, In- 
dianapolis 2nd-3, West Salem-4, Grayville-5, Marshall-Bra- 
zil-2, Bremen-4. 

Grimm, L. — Shelby-1. 

Haist, a. B.— Elkhart S. Side-3, Hicksville-1, Kendallville-2, Day- 
ton Wayne-2, Decatur-4, Olney-5, Huntingburg-3. 

Hallwachs, G. M. — Huntingburg-1, Illinois. 

Haley, E. D. — Bippus-3, Defiance M-1, Celina C-1. 

Haney, L. — Culver C-1, Altamont-1, Camp Creek-1. 

-Haney, Philip — Culver C-1, Rochester C-1. 

Hansing, C. F.— Louisville W. Side M-2, Indianapolis W. End M-3, 
Indianapolis lst-2, Dayton lst-2, Elkhart Div.-3, South Bend 
lst-3, Indianapolis lst-3, Dayton lst-1, P. E.-14, Indianapo- 
lis 2nd-l. 

Hansing, C. F. W. — Greenville C-1, Medaryville-3, Bremen-3, Ft. 
Wayne Bethel-1, Bunker Hill-1. 

Handschu, R. W. — Lake Bruce-1. 

Harms, C. — Marshall-4, Carmi-2, Evansville lst-3, Terre Hautc- 
Brazil-1, Indianapolis 2nd-l, Peru-1, Rockport-5. 

Hartman, C. H.— Portland M-1, Hicksville-1, E. Germantown-1, 
Elkhart Bethek3. 

Hartman, Frank — Noblesville-2, Lancaster-1, Berne-3, South 
Bend Mizpah-2, Indianapolis Grace-3, Celina M-1. 

Harper, J. R. — Noblesville-1. 

Hart, F. W.— Decatur-1 (Withdrew). 

Hartzler, a.— St. Mary-Huntington-1, Defiance-2, St. Mary-2, Ben- 
ton-2. Defiance- 3, Twin Lakes-2, Noblesville-2. 

60 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Haug, J. M.— Indianapolis lst-2, P. E.-4, Dayton lst-4, Conf. Col- 
lector-1, P. E.-3. 

Hauser, E. E. — Defiance M-I/2, Logansport-1. 

Haustedt, W.— Elkhart C-1. 

Heiden. Carl — Fulton-1 (Withdrew). 

Heil, D. R. — Royal Center-2, N. Webster-5, Linn Grove-5. 

Heim, Christian — Clay Co-2, Yellow River C-2, Medaryville-2, 
Greenville C-1, West Salem-2. 

Helut, J. H.— Altamont-2, Bunker Hill-4. 

Hertel, G. a.— Defiance C-2, DeKalb-2, Van Wert-2, South Bend 
C-2, Cincinnati-2, Newville-2, Elkhart Div.-2. 

Herman, M. O.— Cicero-li/2, Greenville M-II/2. 

Hirschman, C. a. — Ft. Wayne Cres.-4, Dayton Wayne-2. 

Heininger, S. — Elkhart Div.-l (Withdrew). 

Hochstettler, E. T.— Elkhart C-1, DeKalb-1, Vandalia-2, Ful- 
ton-2, Greenville C-3, Mishawaka-1. 

Hoehn, M. — Evansville lst-1, Dubois-Warrenton C-1, Indianapo- 
lis lst-2. South Bend lst-1, Newville-2, P. E.-4, Dayton lst-2, 
Louisville Zion-2, Indianapolis lst-3, Evansville lst-2. South 
Bend lst-3, Logansport M-1, Ft. Wayne Bethel-3, Indian- 
apolis lst-1, Indianapolis Ist-Julietta M-1, Dayton lst-3, 
South Bend lst-2. 

Hoffman, Bel. — Montgomery-l, Richmond-1, Fulton-2, South Bend 
C-2. 

Hoffman, John — Elkhart C-1, Cicero-1, Mt. Carmel C-2, Warren- 
ton-1, Mississinawa-1, Greenville-Mississinawa-1, Green- 
ville C-1, Richmond-2, West Salem-1, Mt. Carmel-1, Shel- 
by-1, Olney C-1, Shelby-1, Montgomery-3, Elkhart Div.-2, 
Laporte-3, Bremen-2, Bunker Hill-3, Newville-2, Wabash-1, 
Rochester C-2, Elkhart Div.-2, Dayton lst-1. 

Hofferbert, S. — New Paris-1, St. Mary-3, Ft. Recovery-2, Wol- 
cottville-3, Nappanee C-2. 

Holdeman, G. B. — E. Germantown-1, N. Webster-2, Logansport-2. 

Hoover, D. E.— Kendallville C-1, Defiance C-1. 

Howell, F. F.— N. Webster-1. 

Iwan, Aug. — Logansport-2, Bunker Hill-2, Wanatah-2, Medary- 
ville-1, Laporte-1, Wanatah-1, Elkhart Div.-2. 

JAMIESON, R. F. — Greenville M-1, Elkhart S. Side-1, E. German- 
town-4, Louisville Trinity-4. 

Jones, E. B. — Wolcottville-1, E. Germantown-1, Chattanooga-2. 

JUDIN, C. S. — Owensboro-1. 

Kaley, D. a. — Tippecanoe-1, Defiance C-2, Royal Center-2, E. Ger- 
man town-2, Wolcottville-1, Berne-5. 

61 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Kalwitz, C. — Medaryville-1. 

Kaufman, John — Clay Co.-l, Waiipecong-2, South Bend lst-2, In- 
dianapolis lst-2, Olney C-3, Dayton lst-3, South Ind. Con- 
ference-16, Dayton lst-4, Brazil-3, Indianapolis 2nd-3. 

Keiper, J.— Miami M-1, Elkhart C-1, Dubois-1, Hamilton M-1, Mi- 
ami C-1, Pulaski-1, Fulton-1, Elkhart C-2, Van Wert C-2, 
Ag-ent for N. W. C. (Withdrew). 

Kerlin — West Salem-1. 

Kern, E. B, — Payne-1. 

Kerstettler, T. — Elkhart C-1. 

Kim MEL, G. B. — Indianapolis Grace-4, Dayton Wayne-5, Indianapo- 
lis lst-5, E. T. Seminary. 

Kiplinger, E. L.— Whitewater-1, St. Mary-1, South Bend C-1, 
Rockport-1, Cicero-2, Greenville C-1, Agent for Plainfield 
College-2, Wabash (Laf.) M-2, Cicero-2, Huntington C-1, 
DeKalb-1, P. E.-12. 

Kiplinger, S. — Mississinawa-1, Cicero-2, DeKalb-1, South Bend 
C-2. 

KiSTLER, J. M. — Altamont-1, N. Webster-2. 

Klaiber, M.— Marshall-1, Warrenton-1, Clay Co.-2, Mt. Carmel 
C-1, Carmi-2, Vandalia-2, Louisville Zion-2, Cincinnati-2, 
Dayton lst-2, Indianapolis W. Side M-2, Louisville W. End 
M-1, South Ind. Conf. 

Klopfer, G. — Elkhart C-1, St. Joseph-1, Lafayette-1, Cicero-1, Ful- 
ton-1, Greenville C-1, Fulton-1, Huntington C-1, Mississina- 
wa-1, E. Germantown-1, Vandalia-1, Mt. Carmel C-1. 

Knepper, a. a. — Akron-2, New Paris-4, Urbana-4. 

Koch, G.— Grayville-1. Carmi-2, Tabor-3, Marshall-1, Carmi-2. 

Koehl, M. — Rockport-1, South Ind. Conf. 

Koenig, B. E. — West Salem-Lancaster-1, Rockport-2, Brazil-2, 
Grayville-2, Carmi-5, Celina M-4, Louisville Zion-1. 

Koenig, D. B. — Winchester-1, Louisville Trinity-2, Olney-2, Van 
Wert-3, Berne-3, Wabash-3, California Conf. 

Koenig, Wm. — Richmond-1, Fulton-1, Waupecong-2, Logansport-2, 
Bremen-2, Wanatah-3, Celina C-3, Terre Haute-1, Bremen-3, 
Brazil-1. 

KOHLMEIER, C. — Mt. Carmel-Carmi-Olney C-1, Mt. Carmel C-1, 
South Bend C-1. Olney C-1, Mt. Carmel C-1, Warrenton-1. 

Kramer, H. — Indianapolis lst-1, Evansville lst-1 (Deposed and 

expelled). 
Kring, S. B. — Hicksville-2, Elkhart Watchtower-2, Kendallville 

C-2, Decatur-2. 
Kroft, a. D.— Scott-1, Celina C-2, N. Webster-2. 

62 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Kroft, S. J. — Defiance-2, Royal Center-4, Logansport-1, Edger- 

ton-1, Wabash C-1. 
Kronmiller. J. M.— DeKalb-1, St. Mary-1, Fulton-2, Marshall-1, 

Warrenton-1, Mt. Carmel C-1, Marshall-1, Montgomery-2, 

Defiance C-1, DeKalb-2, Clay Co.-2, Olney C-2, Carmi-1, Mt. 

Carmel C-1, Huntingburg C-2, Carmi-2, South Ind. Conf. 
Krueger, M.— Elkhart C-1, Berrien-1, Calhoun-2, Indianapolis 1st- 

2, St. Mary-2, Elkhart C-2, DeKalb-1, P. E.-4, Ft. Wayne 

Bethel-1, Mishawaka-2, Kendallville C-1, P. E.-8, Bremen-2, 

Vera Cruz-1, Mishawaka-1, Medaryville-2, Winchester-1, 

Bunker Hill-1. 
Lantz, J. M.— Greenville M-1, Akron-1, Bunker Hill-2, Celina C-3, 

Edgerton-3, Wabash C-1, 
Laudeman, E. Q. — Rochester C-1, Akron-2, Rochester-2, Ft. Wayne 

Bethel-2, Dayton Wayne-2, Akron-2, Ft. Wayne Bethel-3. 
Launer, F. — Vandalia-1, Shelby-1, Carmi-2, Vandalia-2, Fulton-2, 

St. Mary-1, Wabash-1, Benton-2, St. Mary-1, Greenville C-2, 

Winchester-2, Montgomery-1, Benton-1. 
Launer, F. W.— West Salem C-2. 
Loose, R. W. — Markle-1, Huntington-1. 
Lueder. Wm. — Fulton-1, Medaryville-3. 
LUEHRING, S. J. — Grayville-1, Huntingburg-3, Texas. 
Luehring, Wm. — Louisville Zion-2, Elkhart Div.-2, Evansville 1st- 

4, Terre Haute-2, Terre Haute-Brazil-1, Evansville lst-4. 
LUTMAN, Geo. — Paulding-1, Elkhart S. Side-2, Noblesville-1 (With- 
drew irregularly). 

LoziER, Geo. — Portland M-1, Grayville-1. 

Maas, C. P. — Lancaster-1, Altamont-1, Mt. Carmel-3, Berne-2, 
Peru-4, Olney-1. 

Markman, O. L. — Grayville-2, New Harmony-3, Mt. Carmel-3. 

Maier, J. A. — Huntington C-1, St. Mary-1, Richmond-2, Evans- 
ville lst-2, Mt. Carmel-2, Mound City-Cairo-1, Jonesboro-1, 
South Ind. Conf. 

Martz, D. — Noblesville-3, New Paris-2, Elkhart Watchtower-3, 
Huntington-2, Rockport-1, P. E.-8, Decatur-1, Huntington-1, 
South Bend Mizpah-1, P. E.-3 (Withdrew). 

Mathias. Chr. F. — Carmi-2, Evansville lst-1, Rockport-2, Mar- 
shall-3, Warren ton-2, West Salem C-1, South Ind. Conf. 

Maurer. J. — Shelby-1, Marshall-1, Montgomery-1, Louisville West 

5. M-1, Celina C-1, Julietta-L 

Mayer, Melchior — Dubois-1, Clay Co.-l, DeKalb-2, Whitewater-1, 
Montgomery-1, Marshall-2, Evansville lst-2, Louisville Zion- 
2, P. E.-8, Cincinnati-1, South Ind. Conf. 

63 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Maier, J. J. — Altamont-1. 

McClure, F. F. — Peru-3, Logansport-1, Peru-1, Bippus-1, South 
Bend Grace-1, Bippus-2, Avilla-2, Portland-1, New Paris-1, 
Markle C-1. 

McCONNEHEY, Chas. — Noblesville-1, Camp Creek-1, Edgerton-1, 
Lancaster-3, Culver-2, E. Germantown-l, 

Meyers, E. E. — Winchester-1, Twin Lakes-2, Noblesville-3, Edger- 
ton-2, N. Webster-2, Phillipsburg-1, Greenville-Phillipsburg- 
1, Lake Bruce-2. 

Meyers, F. F.— South Bend lst-3. 

Meyers, H. E. — Ft. Recovery-1, Defiance-1. 

Metzler, M. S. — Bremen-1 (License revoked). 

Metzner, J. W. — New Paris-Nappanee C-1, Nappanee C-1, Hunt- 
ington-2, Berne-2, Rochester S-2 Defiance C-3, Wolcott- 
ville-3, Kendallville-3, Huntington-rj, P. E.-5. 

Miller, E. E. — Phillipsburg-4, Markle-5, Nappanee M-2. 

Miller, J. — Mt. Carmel-1, Carmi-1, Clay Co.-l, Marshall-1, Waupe- 
cong-2, Wabash M-2, Shelby-1, Wanatah-3, Newville-2, Mont- 
gomery-3, Winchester-2, Ft. Wayne Bethel-2, Winchester-1, 
St. Mary-1. 

Miller, Philemon — Marshall-1, Mt. Carmel-1. 

Mills, W. S. — Mishawaka-South Bend Mizpah-1, Ohio Conf. 

Mode, J. — Carmi-1, Lake Creek-1, South Ind. Conf. 

MosiER, J. 0. — Kendallville-3, Elkhart Watchtower-4, Indianapolis 
Grace-3, P. E.-4, South Bend Mizpah-5. 

MUNDORF, J. — Lancaster-1, Tabor-3, Medaryville-3, West Salem-2, 
Grayville-1, Marshall-3, Rockport-2, Altamont-1, San Pierre- 
3, Phillipsburg-2. 

Mygrant, W. H. — Defiance C-1, E. Germantown-2, Waterloo-3, 
Hicksville-3, Kendallville C-3, New Paris-1, Decatur-2, Wol- 
cottville-2, Rochester-2, Waterloo-1, Portland-2, Van Wert-3, 
Defiance C-1, South Bend Grace-1, Syracuse-2, St. Peter-2. 

Neff, H. E. — Greenville M-1, Winchester-Greenville-1, Rochester 
C-2, Wolcottville-2. 

Newman, Levi — Rochester C-2, Twin Lakes-8, Culver-1, N. Web- 
ster-2. Mishawaka-4, Rochester-2, South Bend Grace-2, Con- 
ference Evangelist-5. 

Nicolai, a.— St. Mary-2, DeKalb-2, Elkhart C-1, St. Mary-1, Ful- 
ton-2, Bainbridge-1, Yellow River C-2. 

Nitsche, E. J. — Carmi-1, Terre Haute-4, West Salem-2, South 
Bend lst-4, Carmi-2, Marshall-Brazil-5, Indianapolis 2nd-5. 

64 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Oakes, D. S.— Fulton-1, Huntington C-1, St. Mary-1, Lafayette-1, 
St. Mary-l, Elkhart C-2, DeKalb-2, Elkhart C-1, Missionary 
to Oregon-2, Mishawaka-3, Twin Lakes-1, Benton-1, Ken- 
dallville C-3, E. Germantown-1, P. E.-22. 

Oliver, E. J. — Peru-2, E. Germantown. 

OVERMEYER, C. D. — Ft. Recovery-1. 

OVERMEYER, H. E. — Spring Grove-2, Elkhart C-1, New Paris-1, 
Twin Lakes-1, Mishawaka-1, Tippecanoe-Logansport-1, Lo- 
gansport-2, Wolcottville-2, Berne-1, E. Germantown-1, Twin 
Lakes-1, Noblesville-3. 

Orth, Philip — E, Germantown-2, Defiance C-2, Richmond-3, Port- 
land-1 (Withdrew). 

Parker, A.— Mt. Caimel-Olney C-1, Fulton-1, Pulaski-1, E. Ger- 
mantown-1, DeKalb-1 (Withdrew). 

Paulin, J. — St. Mary-1, Cicero-1, Marshall-1, Huntington C-2, Elk- 
hart C-2. 

Pierce, C. M. — Edgerton-1, Waterloo-2, Ft. Recovery-1, Berne-2, 
Huntington-2. 

Platz, G. G. — Hamilton-1, P. E.-8, Indianapolis lst-1, Marshall-2, 
P. E.-4. 

Platz, N. F.— South Bend Grace-Elkhart S. Side-1, South Bend 
Grace-2, Lakeville-4. 

Platz, N. J. — Rockport-1, Shelby-1, South Ind. Conf.-16, Camp 
Creek-1, Vera Cruz-3, Bremen-2. 

Pontius, D. J. — Marshall-1, Cicero-1, Twin Lakes-1, Defiance C-1, 
New Paris-1, Warsaw-1, Fulton-2, N. Liberty M-1, Ft. Re- 
covery-1, Huntington C-1, Cleveland, Tenn.-l, Chattanooga, 
Tenn.-l, Rochester C-1. 

Pontius, S. H. — Defiance C-1, N. Webster-2. 

Porr, Philip — Newville-2, Van Wert-2. 

Praetorius, E. W. — Louisville Trinity-5, Terre Haute-2, Elkhait 
lst-2. 

Prechtel, H. p. — Greenville C-1, Richmond-1, Twin Lakes-^, Misli- 
awaka-2. 

Price, H. R. — Huntington C-1, Decatur-1. 

Pullman, Geo. C. — Rochester S-2. 

Raeber, a. O.— Defiance C-2, E. Germantown-2, Elkhart Watch- 
tower-8, Rochester M-3, Dayton Wayne-3. 

Rainey, R. — Twin Lakes-3, Edgerton-2, Payne-1, Ft. Recovery-2, 
N. W^ebster-1, Bruce Lake-1. 

Rainey, S. D.— Scott-3. 

Rarey, C. D. — Noblesville-3, Nappanee-3, Huntington-2, Ft. Wayne 
Bethel-3. 

65 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Rausch, F.— Montgoineiy-2, St. Mary-2, Van Wert-3, Mishawaka- 

2, Olney-2, Louisville Zion-4, Indianapolis lst-4, Urbana-1, 

South Bend lst-3, Mishawaka-2, Elkhart S. Side-2, South 

Bend C-1. 
Rees, John — Julietta-2, Edgerton-2, Twin Lakes-3, New Paris-2, 

Edgerton-3, Noblesville-3, Bunker Hill-2, Ft. Recovery-4, 

Linn Grove-2, Wolcottville-5. 
Reinoehl, H. H. — Ft. Recovery-2, St. Mary-1, Nappanee C-4, Wol- 

cottville-1, Greenville-1, Nappanee C-4, Syracuse-2, Lake- 

ville-2, South Bend C-1. 
Ressler, J. — Twin Lakes-1, Silver Lake-1, Danville-l (Withdrew). 
Reutepoehler, F. — Cumberland, Tenn.-l, Camp Creek-1, Enter- 

prise-4, Lancaster-4, Elberfeld-3, San Pierre-2. 
Riegel, R.— Elkhart C-1, South Bend C-1, St. Mary-1, Berrien-2, 

Mich. Conf.-4, Huntington C-2, Cicero-2, DeKalb-1, Kendall- 

ville- Waterloo C-1. 
Riley, Wm. — Payne-2 (Withdrew). 
Rilling, J. H. — Lancaster-2, Marshall-1, Vera Cruz-2, Wabash-3, 

South Bend Mizpah-4, Rochester S-3, Decatur-4. 
Rtnggenberg, C. D. — Tippecanoe-1, St. Mary-1, Paulding-1, Ca- 

vett-1, Hicksville-2, Bunker Hill-3, Phillipshurg-1, Defiance 

C-2 (Withdrew irregularly). 
Roberts, E. E. — Berne C-1. 
ROEDERER, Geo. — Fulton-1, Huntington-1, Richmond-3, Newville-3, 

South Bend lst-2, Elkhart Div.-l, Bunker Hill-2, Wabash 

M-3, Celina C-3, Olney-2, P. E.-4, Louisville Zion-4. 
Roederer, Irvin — Logansport-1, Evansville M-1. 
Rogers, J. M. — E. Germantown-1, Rochester C-2, Markle-1. 
ROOP, E. R. — Ohio City C-1, Chattanooga-1, Portland C7I, Green- 
ville M-3 (Deposed and expelled). 
Rosenberger, J. — E. Germantown-1. 
Roth, Peter— Elkhart C-2, Fulton-1, St. Joseph-2, South Bend C-1, 

Defiance C-1, Greenville C-2, Waupecong-2, St. Mary-2, Ben- 

ton-1, Wanatah-2, Marshall-1, Ft. Wayne Bethel-2. 
Rowe, C. D. — Defiance-2 (Withdrew). 

RliCHSTUHL, J. — Fulton-Huntington C-1 (License revoked). 
RUH, B.— Elkhart C-1, Marshall-2, Olney C-1, South Bend and 

Berrien-1, Miami C-1, Fulton-1, Huntington C-1, Berrien-1, 

Elkhart C-1. 
RUSSEL, T. J.— Culver-3. 
Schafer, a. B.— p. E.-3, Evansville lst-2, South Bend C-1, In- 

dianapalis lst-1. South Bend lst-2, Cincinnati-1. 

66 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

ScHAFER, A. R. — DefiancG-1, Twin Lakes-2, Noblesville-2, New 
Paris-2, Edgerton-2, Waterloo-3, Decatur-2, Mish — Died be- 
fore reaching appointment. 

SCHAMBERS. J. — Greenville C-1 (Withdrew). 

SCHAMO, C. — DeKalb-1, Cicero-1, E. Germantown-2, Vandalia-2, 
Fulton-2, Greenville C-1, Defiance-1 (Voluntarily surren- 
dered license). 

SCHEIDLER, M. L. — Noblesville-1, Hicksville-2, Dayton Wayne-1, 
Elkhart Watchtower-3, South Bend Mizpah-4, Rochester S-3, 
E. Germantown-1, Urbana-4, Kokomo-5, Evansville lst-3. 

SCHLEUCHER, H. — Carmi-2, Rockport-1, Mt. Carmel-2, South Ind. 
Conf.-16, Indianapolis lst-1, Huntingburg-3, Celina C-2, 
West Point-2, Bippus-1, Mt. Carmel-2, South Bend lst-3, 
Bremen-2, Mishawaka-1. 

SCHLEMMER, C. W. — Logansport-1, St. Peter's-2, Lake Bruce-3, 
Markle-1. 

SCHMIDLI, J. — Ft. Wayne Bethel-2, Richmond-2. 

SCHMOLL, George — Mt. Carmel-Carmi C-1, Vandalia-1, Olney C-1, 
Richmond-1, Montgomery-1, Cincinnati-1, Marshall-2, Hunt- 
ingburg C-1, Rockport-1, Brazil-1, Bunker Hill-3, Julietta-1, 
Wabash M-1, Laporte-3, Wabash C-2, Winchester-Green- 
ville-3, Montgomery-2, Ft. Wayne Bethel-3, Huntingburg-1. 

SCHNITZ, J. H. — Tippecanoe-Logansport-1, Altamont-2, Camp 
Creek-3, Celina C-1, Lancaster-2. 

SCHOLZ, August — Vandalia-1, Greenville C-1 (Deposed and ex- 
pelled). 

SCHWILLI. P. — St. Joseph-2. 

Schuerman. F. — St. Maiy-1, Fulton-1, Dayton lst-1. 

SCHUERMEIER, B. — Louisville Trinity-1, Evansville lst-3, Mt. Car- 
mel-1, Terre Haute-2, Olney-3, Carmi-1, Peru-1, Bremen-5, 
Dayton lst-5. Van Wert-1. 

SCHUH. J. C. — Montgomery-2, Greenville C-1, Sulphur Springs-2, 
Cincinnati-2, Marshall-2, Celina C-3, Montgomery-2, Juliet- 
ta-1, Logansport-1, Logansport-Royal Center-1, Ft. Recov- 
ery-2, St. Mary-1, Wanatah-1, Celina C-2 (Withdrew). 

Schwartz, Philip— Miami C-1, Greenville C-1, Elkhart C-2, Hunt- 
ington-1, Wabash M-1. 

Schweitzer, F. G. — South Ind. Conf., Bremen-1, Indianapolis lst-3. 
South Bend lst-3, Terre Haute-1, Dayton lst-4, Indianapolis 
2nd-2. 

Shoop. S.— Defiance C-1, St. Mary-1. 

Smith. B. G.— Wabash C-1, Kokomo-3. 

67 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Smith, J. E. — St. Mary-1, Fulton-1, Defiance C-1, Van Wert-3, No- 
blesville-2, Noblesville-Jiilietta-1, New Paris-3, Van Wert-2, 
Ft. Wayne Bethel-2, Wabash-1, Himtingburg-2. 

Smith, J. M. — Lake Bruce-1, E. Germantown-1, Edgerton-1, Edg- 
erton-Hicksville-1, Payne-2, Ft. Recovery-2, Waterloo-1. 

Smith, L. E. — Tippecanoe-1, Leiter's Ford-1, Lake Bruce-1, Port- 
land M-1, Nappanee M-3, Mt. Carmel-1, Louisville Trinity-1. 

Snyder, B. F. — Wanatah-1, Montgomery-1. 

Snyder, Earl — Markle C-1. 

Snyder, F. L. — Mishawaka-1, Defiance-1, Decatur-2, Defiance-2, 
Portland-3, Wolcottville-2, Ft. Recovery-3, Markle-1, Ur- 
bana-4, Defiance-2, Culver-1. 

Snyder, W. E. — Logansport-2, Royal Center-3, Altamont-2, Bip- 
pus-2, Peru-2, Ridgeville-5, Akron-2, Carmi-1. 

Spangler, C. W. — Bunker Hill-1, Winchester-2, Rochester S-4, E. 
Germantown-1, Greenville M-1, Portland-3, Markle-1, Syra- 
cuse-2, Akron-1. 

Spangler, D. D. — Green ville-Winchester-1, Clear Creek-1, Julietta- 
2, Lake Bruce-1, Bunker Hill-2, Van Wert-2, Vera Cruz-3, 
Tabor-2, New Paris-4, Elkhart Bethel-5, Mishawaka-3. 

Speicher, D. D. — Richmond-1, New Paris-1, Logansport-1, Ft. 
Wayne Bethel-2, Bremen-2, Wabash-3, Mishawaka-2, Van 
Wert-3, Huntingburg-3, Olney-2, P. E.-4, Indianapolis 2nd- 
2, E. Germantown-1, South Bend Grace-4. 

Speicher, J. L. — Peru-1, Akron-1. 
•Speicher, G. E. — Winchester-2. 

Speicher, P. S.— Bunker Hill-1, Twin Lakes-1, Phillipsburg-4, Em- 
mettsville-1, Emmettsville-Greenville-2, Greenville M-1. 

Speck, Martin— Calhoun-1, South Bend C-1, Elkhart C-1, Kala- 
mazoo-1, Louisville Zion-3, South Ind. Conf. (Withdrew). 

Spencer, I. G. — N. Liberty M-2. 

Stedcke, F. J.— Hicksville-1, Huntington C-1, Greenville M-2, 
Scott-1, Van Wert-5, Peru-1. 

Stedcke, J. H. — E. Germantown-1, Winchester-1 (Voluntarily sur- 
rendered his license) . 

Steele, Ira — Akron-1, Lake Bruce-3, New Paris-2, Edgerton-2. 

Steffey, M. W.— Hamilton-1, Elkhart C-2, Indianapolis lst-1, Day- 
ton lst-2, P. E.-8, Ft. Wayne Bethel-2, Dayton lst-2, P. E.-8, 
Elkhart Div.-3, Dayton lst-3, Indianapolis lst-3, Elkhart 
Div.-2, South Bend lst-3. 

Steininger, Geo. C— E. Germantown-1. 

Steininger, H.— Berne-2, Defiance C-2, Huntington-2, Logans- 
port-2.. 

68 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Stier, C. — Carmi-1, South Indiana Conf. 

Stierle, F. C. — Indianapolis 2nd-l, Illinois Conf. (Withdrew). 

Stierle, G. a. — San Pierre-1, Enterprise-1, Elberfeld-3, West Sa- 

lem-3, Carmi-1. 
Stockhovve, C. — Marshall-2, Shelby-1, Van Wert-2, South Indiana 

Conf. (Withdrew). 
Stoops, J. E. — Defiance C-1, Waterloo-2, Decatur-3, Wolcottville-1, 

Urbana-2, Portland-2, Markle-1, New Paris-2, Van Wert-3. 
Stowell, W. a. — Phillipsburg-1, Star City-2, Common Center-1. 
Stretcher, G. — Julietta-1. 

Strickler, H. — Hamilton-1, St. Mary-1, Elkhart C-1, Hamilton-1. 
Sunderman, M. W.— Portland-2, Elkhart Div.-2, South Bend 

Grace-1, Olney-3, Evansville lst-5, Olney-2, Indianapolis 

Grace-1. 
Thomas, J. W.— Wabash C-1. 
Thompson, H. E. — Portland-1, Hicksville-1. 
Thornton, P. — St. Mary-1. 
Tiedt, J. A.— Medaryville-3, Marshall-2, Brazil-3, Phillipsburg-3, 

Enterprise-2, Camp Creek-3, Elberfeld 2, Rockport-3, Wana- 

tah-3, Culver C-3. 
Thiersch, Robert — Owensboro-1, Grayville-2. 
Tracy, W. S.— Waterloo-1, Markle-2, Lake Bruce-2, Royal Center- 

1, Defiance-1, Defiance-Hicksville-1, Mishawaka-4, Royal 
Center-1, Ft. Recovery-1, NoblesYille-3, Culver C-1. Bunker 
Hill-2, Celina C-3, Defiance C-1. 

Tramer, C. — Indianapolis lst-1, Louisville Zion-2, Olney-2, Indian- 
apolis lst-3, Indianapolis W. Side M-2, Logansport-1, Juliet- 
ta-3, Mishawaka-2, Richmond-Montgomery-1, Montgom- 
ery-1. 

Trometer, J. — Evansville lst-1, Vandalia-2, Waupecong-2, lonia- 

2, Mich. Conf. 
Troyer, And. — Bunker Hill-2. 

Troyer, E. R. — Greenville C-2, Montgomery-2, Greenville C-2, New- 

ville-3, Bremen-3, Wabash-2. Also in South Ind. Conf. 
Troyer, J. K. — Elkhart C-1, Montgomery-1, Montgomery-Rich- 

mond-1, Newville-2, Bremen-3, Dayton lst-2, Wabash-2. 
Ude, Christian — DeKalb-1, Carmi-1, Berrien-1, Vandalia-1, lonia- 

1, South Bend C-1, Marshall-1, Mich. Conf.-l, Medaryville-1. 

N. Liberty M-1, South Bend C-1. 
Uphaus, B. — Marshall-1, Dubois-1, Fulton-1, Berrien-1, DeKalb-1, 

Newville-2, St. Mary-2, Defiance C-2, Fulton-1, Yellow River 

C-2, Waupecong-2, Greenville C-2, Celina C-1, Warrenton-2, 

West Salem C-2, Greenville C-1. 

69 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Wachnitz, F. C. — St. Peter-1, Bippus-2. 

Wales, Geo. W. — Greenville C-1, DeKalb-1, E. Germantown-1. 

Wales, James — Fulton-l, DeKalb-1, E. Germantown-2, Cicero-1, 
Noblesville-1, Van Wert-1, Decatur-1, E. Germantown-Rich- 
mond-1, E. Germantown-2, Elkhart Watchtower-3, Kendall- 
ville C-2, N. Webster-1, Rochester C-4, Lake Bruce-2, Ur- 
bana-1, Huntington-l, Mishawaka-South Bend Mizpah-1, 
South Bend Mizpah-1, Elkhart S. Side-1, Lake Bruce-1, Lo- 
gansport-1, Logansport-Perii-1, Noblesville-1, Royal Center- 

1, N. Liberty M-2, West South Bend-1. 

Walmer, F. B.— Yellow River M-1, Waterloo-2, N. Webster-2, Cul- 

ver-3, Nappanee C-2, Royal Center-4. 
Weisshaar, G. a. — Rockport-1, Bourbon-1, Camp Creek-2, Bra- 

zil-3. 
Weisshaar, H. — Richmond-1, Bremen-2, Medaryville-3. 
Weisjahn, a. F. — E. Germantown-1, Paulding-1, Royal Center-2, 

N. Webster-1. 
Wendall, C. D. — Decatur-2. 
Wesseler, Wm. — Dubois-1, Warrenton-1, Clay Co.-2, Carmi-2, 01- 

ney C-2, Vandalia-2, Huntingburg C-2, Cumberland, Tenn,- 

2, Van Wert-1. 

Wessling, Chr. — St. Mary-1, Mt. Carmel-Olney C-1, Dubois-War- 
renton C-1, Dubois-1, Olney C-1, Vandalia-2, Clay Co.-l, 
Newville-2, Van Wert-2, Warrenton-2, West Salem C-2, Car- 
mi-3, Huntingburg C-2, South Ind. Conf. 

Werner, E. E. — Royal Center-1, Royal Center-Lake Bruce-1. 

Weyant, W. I. — Portland C-2, Huntington S-1, E. Germantown-1. 

Weyrick, a. E. — E. Germantown-2, Akron-1, Tippecanoe-2. 

Wiest, Peter — St. Mary-Huntington C-1. 

WiETHAUP, F. — Mt. Carmel C-1, Evansville lst-2, Newville-2, Ful- 
ton-l, Yellow River C-2, Whitewater-1, Dayton lst-2, Hunt- 
ingburg C-2, Warrenton-2, Indianapolis lst-1, Evansville 
lst-2, Huntingburg-2. 

WiLDERMUTH, A. W. — Akron-1. 

WiLDERMUTH, Wm. — Twin Lakes-1, Elkhart C-2, Huntington C-1, 
Fulton-l, Twin Lakes-1, Mishawaka-2, Wanatah-1, West 
Point-1, Rochester C-1, Urbana-1. 

Winter, G. A. — West Salem-1, Rockport-2, Enterprise-2, Camp 
Creek-3, Marshall-2, Rockport-2, San Pierre-3, Enterprise-3, 
Lancaster-2, Elberfeld-1. 

Wise, D. O. — Altamont-1, Waterloo-Hicksville-1, Decatur-4, Louis- 
ville Trinity-3, Mt. Carmel-1. 

70 



MINISTERS OF THE CONFERENCE AND THE FIELDS 

Wise, J. J. — Decatur-2, New Paris-4, Huntington-4, Kokomo-2, 

P. E.-8. 
Wise, Rudolph — Altamont-1. 
Wright, C. A.— Elkhart S. Side-1, Svracuse-3, Rochester-1, Cicero- 

l/o-l. 

Young, J. C— Celina C-3, St. Louis-2, South Ind. Conf. 

Young, J. E.— Defiance C-2, Portland C-2, Culver-2, New Paris-1. 

Zechiel, D. E.— Wanatah-1, Waterloo-3, Berne-4, Ft. Wayne Beth- 

el-4, Indianapolis Grace-2, Himtingburg-2, Louisville Zion- 

4, Dayton lst-1. 
Zechiel, F. E.— Hicksville-1, N. Webster-2, Portland-3, Dayton 

Wayne-4, Urbana-1, Elkhart Watchtower-1. 
Zechiel, S. I.— Logansport-1, Markle-2, West Point-1, Louisville 

Trinity-1, Elkhart S. Side-2, Decatur-2, Kendallville C-2, 

Wolcottville-2. 
Zimmer, George — Elkhart C-1, Fulton-2. 
Zuber, G. F.— Bippus-2, Waterloo-1, Scott-4, West Salem-1, Ridge- 

ville-1. 



71 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



The Various Fields of Labor in the Indiana 
Conference, and the Ministers That Have Served 

Them 

Akron — {Called Gilead for one year.) 

P. Buehler, '88; E. Q. Laudeman, '01-2; A. E. Weyrick, '03; 
J. M. Lantz, '04 ; W. Wildermiith, '05 ; A. A. Knepper, '06-7 ; 
I. Steele, '08 ; A. Geist, '09 ; J. L. Speicher, '10 ; E. Q. Laude- 
man, '11 -(Gilead) -12; (Akron), W. E. Snyder, '13-4; C. W. 
Spangler, '15. 

Altamont — (At times served with Camp Creek, discontinued in 
1915.) 
J. H. Schnitz, '93-4; J. W. Feller, '95-6-7; W. E. Snyder, 
'03; J. J. Maier, '04; C. P. Maas, '05; D. O. Wise, '06; E. 
R. Baker, '07; J. Mundorf, '08; R. V^^ise, '09; J. H. Heldt, 
'10-1; J. M. Kistler, '12; Ph. Buehler, '13; L. Haney, '14. 

Atlanta — (Added to Noblesville, then to Cicero.) 
A. B. Aegerter, '10. 

AviLLA — (A part of Kendallville Cir. Hopewell class and Garrett 
added.) 
F. F. McClure, '11-2 (Hopewell add.), F. S. Erne, '13-4-5. 

Bainbridge — (A part of Berrien Circuit, and reincorporated.) 

A. Nicolai, '61. 

Benton — (Part of Elkhart Circuit. Discontinued.) 

P. Roth, A. Geist, '72 ; A. Hartzler, '73-4 ; F. Launer, '75-6-7 ; 

D. S. Cakes, '78. 

Berne — (Originally a part of St. Mary and Decatur Cir.) 

H. E. Overmeyer, '89 ; T. Carrol, '90-1 ; Wm. Ackerman, '92 ; 
H. Steiningcr, '93-4; J. W. Metzner, '95-6; C. M. Pierce, 
'97-8; D. E. Zech^el, '99-00-1-2; D. B. Koenig, '03-4-5; F. 
Haitman, '06-7-8; C. P. Maas, '09-10; D. A. Kaley, '11-2-3- 
4-5. 

Berne Circuit — (Formerly Ohio City, Chattanooga.) 

E. R. Roop, '10; E. B. Jones, '11-2; J. L. Buyer, Jr., '13-4 
(Beine Cir.), E. E. Roberts, '15. 

Berrien — (A circuit that lay in Michigan and became a part of 
that Conf.) 

B. Uphaus, 1855; J. Fox, B. Ruh, 1856; M. Krueger, 1857; 
D. Garll, 1858; Chr. Ude, 1859; B. Ruh, J. M. Gomer, 1860; 
M. Alspach, 1861; R. Riegel, 1862-63; P. Roth, 1864. In 
1865 became a part of the Michigan Conf. 

72 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

BiPPUS — (Formerly West Point.) 

H. Schleucher, '03; W. E. Snyder, '04-5; F. F. McClure, 
'06; G. F. Ziiber, '07-8; F. F. McClure, '09-10; to be sup- 
plied, '11; E. D. Haley, '12-3; F. C. Wachnitz, '14-15. 

Bourbon — (See Nappanee Circuit.) 

G. A. Weisshaar, '10. Added to Nappanee Circuit in '11. 

Brazil — (First a large circuit, afterward a single appointment, 
served alone, and then with Terre Haute or Marshall, 
then alone again.) 
J. Beck, '73-4; G. Schmoll, '75 (From '76 to '92 appointed 
by South Ind. Conf.), M. F. Finkbeiner, '93-4; J. A. Tiedt, 
'95-6-7 ; J. Kaufman, '98-9 ; Wm. Koenig, '00 ; B. E. Koenig, 
'01-2; W. L. Luehring, '03; C. Harms, '04; E. C. Ewald, '06; 

E. J. Nitsche, '07-8-9-10; I. H. Griesemer, '11; L. J. Ehr- 
hardt, '12; G. A. Weisshaar, '13-14-5. 

Bremen — (Yellow River Circuit.) 

(Yellow River Circuit), F. Geisel, '57; F. Wiethaup, '58-59 
P. Burgener, '60-1-2; A. Nicolai, '63; B. Uphaus, '64-5 
Chr. Heim, '66-7; Chr. Ude, '68-9; Chr. Glaus, '70-71 
(Bremen), C. Glaus, '72; J. K. Troyer, A. Geist, '73; J. K 
Troyer, '74-5; Wm. Koenig, '76-7; E. R. Troyer, '78-9-'80 
J. Hoffman, '81-2 ; M. Krueger, '83-4 ; H. Weisshaar, '85-6 
C. F. W. Hansing, M. S. Metzler, '87; C. W. F. Hansing 
'88-9; D. D. Speicher, '90-1; H. Arlen, '92; F. Schweitzer 
'93 ; Wm. Koenig, '94-5-6 ; N. J. Platz, '97-8 ; W. G. Braeck- 
ly, '90-00-01-02 ; J. H. Evans, '03-4 ; B. Schuermeier, '05-6-7- 
8-9; H. Schleucher, '10-11; I. H. Griesemer, '12-13-14-15. 

Bremen Circuit — (Formerly Yellow River Mission, and added to 
Nappanee Cir. in '10.) 
(Yellow River Mission), F. B. Walmer, '01; J. W. Feller, 
'02; (Bremen Cir.), J. W. Feller, '03-4-5; L. J. Ehrhardt, 
'06-7 ; Ph. Buehler, '08-09. 

Bunker Hill — (Formerly Waupecong.) 

F. Geisel, 1858-59 ; J. Trometer, 1860-61 ; D. Bartholomew, 
1862; H. L. Fisher, 1864; J. Kaufman, 1865; B. Uphaus, 
1866-67; P. Roth, 1868-69; J. Miller, 1870-71; Wm. Koenig, 
1872-73, (Bunker Hill), A. Troyer, 1874-75; Geo. Schmoll, 
1876-77-78; Aug. Iwan, 1879-80; J. Beck, 1881; J. Bruckert, 
1882; J. Hoffman, 1883-84-85; Geo. Roederer, 1886-87-88; 
S. H. Baumgartner, 1889-90; C. F. W. Hansing, 1891; 
C. W. Spangler, 1892 ; D. D. Spangler, 1893-94 ; P. S. Spei- 
cher, 1895; J. Bruckert, 1896-97; M. Krueger, 1898; L. J. 
Ehrhardt, 1899-1900; J. L. Buyer, 1901-02; J. Rees, 1903- 

73 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

04; J. M. Lantz, 1905-06; C. D. Ringgenberg, 1907-08-09; 
W. S. Tracy, 1910-11; J. H. Heldt 1912-13-14-15. 

Calhoun — (Changed to Kalamazoo and incorporated with the 
Michigan Conf.) 
M. Alspauch, '57; M. Krueger, '58-59; M. Speck, '60; J. 
M. Corner, '61-62, (Kalamazoo), M. Speck, '63. Mich. 
Conf. 

Camp Creek — (Sometimes together with Altamont, formerly called 
Shelby.) 
(Shelby), F. Launer, 1867; J. Berger, 1868; J. Berger, F. 
Maurer, 1869; J. Hoffman, L. Grimm, 1870; J. Hoffman, 
1872; C, Stockhowe, 1873; J. Miller, 1874; N. J. Platz, 1875. 
Afterward supplied by South Ind. Conf., (Camp Creek), N. 
J. Platz, '93; to be supplied, '94; J. H. Schnitz, '95-6; G. F. 
Winter, '98 ; G. F. Winter, McConnehey, '99 ; G. F. Winter, 
'00 ; P. Buehler, '01 ; F. Reutepoehler, '02 ; J. A. Tiedt, '03-4-5 ; 
J. W. Feller, '06-7 ; A. W. Feller, '08-9-0 ; G. A. Weisshaar, 
'11-2; Ph. Buehler, '13; L. Haney, '14-15. 

Carmi — (Circuit, mission, station.) 

J. Fox, D. Bartholomew, C. Kohlmeier, 1857; C. Ude, 1858; 
Wm. Wesseler, 1859-60; Geo. Schmoll, 1861; A. Dassel, 
1862; M. Klaiber, 1863-64; C. F. Mathias, 1865-66; J. Mil- 
ler, 1867; F. Launer, 1868-69; J. M. Kronmiller, 1870; C. 
Wessling, H. Schleucher, 1871-72; C. Wessling, E. Bolander, 
1873; J. M. Kronmiller, C. Mode, 1874; J. Kronmiller, C. 
Stier, 1875 (Supplied by South Ind. Conf. until 1893). E. 
J. Nitsche, 1893; G. Koch, 1894-95; I. H. Griesemer, 1896- 
97-98 ; C. Harms, 1899-00 ; G. Koch, 1901-02 ; B. Schuermeier, 
1903; E. J. Nitsche, 1904-05; B. E. Koenig, 1906-07-08-09- 
10; A. W. Feller, 1911-12-13; G. A. Stierle; W. E. Snyder, 
1915. 

Cavett Mission — (See Scott.) 

Celina Circuit^ (Formed from the southern points of Van Wert 
Circuit.) 
B. Uphaus, 1870; J. Young, 1871-2; J. C. Young, G. Ber- 
stecher, 1873; J. Maurer, G. Berstecher, 1874; J. C. Schuh, 
1875-6-7; J. Beck, 1878-9-80; Wm. Koenig, 1881-2-3; H. Ar- 
len, 1884-5-6; J. C. Schuh, 1887-8; A. S. Fisher, 1889-90-91; 
Geo. Roederer, 1892-3-4; Wm. Ackerman, 1895-96; J. F. 
Bockman, 1897; J. H. Schnitz, 1898; H. Schleucher, 1899- 
1900; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1901-2; J. L. Buyer, 1903-4-5-6; J. M. 
Lantz, 1907-8-9; A. D. Kroft, 1910-11; W. S. Tracy, 1912- 
13-14; E. D. Haley, 1915. 

74 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Celina Mission — 

B. E. Koenig, '11-2-3-4; F. Hartman, '15. 
Chattanooga, Tenn. — 

D, J. Pontius, '89 ; to be supplied, '90-01 ; discontinued, 
Chattanooga Mission — (See Berne Circuit.) 

Cicero — (Formerly Noblesville Mission and Cicero). 

Jos. Paulin, 1858; J. Hoffman, 1859; Geo. Kloepfer, 1860; 

E. L. Kiplinger, 1861-62; M. Alspauch, 1863; C. Shamo, 
1864; S. Kiplinger, 1865-66; D. J. Pontius, 1867; E. L. Kip- 
linger, 1868-69; R. Riegel, 1870-71; J. Wales, 1872; (No- 
blesville), J. Wales, 1873; G. W. Freehafer, 1874; A. R. 
Schafer, 1875-76; A. Hartzler, 1877-78; Aug. Geist, 1879; 
D. Martz, 1880-81-82; S. S. Albert, 1883-84; J. E. Smith, 
1885-86-87; M. L. Scheidler, 1888; E. E. Meyers, 1889-90- 
91; H. E. Overmeyer, 1892-93-94; J. R. Harper, 1895; C. 
D. Rarey, 1896-1897; C. D. Rarey, C. McConnehey, 1898; 
J. Wales, 1899; J. Rees, 1900-01-02; F. Hartman, 1903-04; 
W. S. Tracy, 1905-06-07 ; G. C. Lutman, 1908 ; A. B. Aeger- 
ter, 1909; to be supplied, 1910; J. L. Buyer, Jr., 1911; 
(Cicero), J. L. Buyer, Jr., 1912; M. O. Herman, 1913-14; 

C. A. Wright, 1914-15. 

Cincinnati — 

Ed. Evans, 1864 ; A. B. Schafer, 1865 ; Geo. Schmoll, 1866 ; G. 
A. Hertel, 1867-68; M. Klaiber, 1869-70; J. C. Schuh, 1871- 
72; Fr. Brauer, 1873-74; M. Mayer, 1875. (Afterward 
supplied by the South Ind. Conf. until it was discontinued.) 

Clay Co. Mission — (A detachment of Marshall Circuit.) 

M. Mayer, 1856; Wm. Wesseler, 1857-58; Wm. Bockman, 
1859; M. Klaiber, 1860-61; Chr. Wessling, 1862; J. Kauf- 
man, 1863; Chr. Heim, 1864-65; J. M. Kronmiller, 1866-67; 
J. Miller. 1868. 

Clear Creek — (Discontinued.) 

D. D. Spangler, '89. 

Cleveland, Tenn. — 

D. J. Pontius, '88 ; H. L. Fisher, '89 ; discontinued. 

Common Center — (Star City and Thorn Hope.) 

(Star City), W. A. Stowell, '10-11; (Thorn Hope), W. A. 
Stowell, '12; (Common Center), W. A. Stowell, '13; J. M. 
Dustman, '14; to be supplied, '15. 

Culver Station — (Formerly a part of Twin Lakes Cir.) 
J. E. Young, '13-4; F. L. Snyder, '15. 

75 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Culver Circuit — (Formerly Twin Lakes Cir.) 

D. J. Pontius, 1868 ; E. E. Condo, 1869 ; Wm. Wildermuth, 
1870; J. Ressler, 1871; S. S. Albert, 1872; A. R. Schafer, 
1873-4 ; A. R. Hartzler, 1875-6 ; D. S. Oakes, 1877 ; W. Wil- 
dermuth, 1878 ; H. P. Prechtel, 1879-80 ; Wm. Wildermuth, 
1881; H. E. Overmeyer, 1882; B. F. Dill, 1883; R. Rainey, 
1884-5-6; E. E. Meyers, 1887-8; J. M. Dustman, 1889-90; H. 

E. Overmeyer, 1891; J. Rees, 1892-3-4; J. M. Dustman, 
1895; P. S. Speicher, 1896; L. Newman, 1897-8-9; (Culver), 
'10; P. L. Browns, 1901-2-3; C. McConnehey, 1904-5; F. B. 
Walmer, 1906-7-8; W. S. Tracy, 1909; T. J. Russel, 1910-11- 
12; J. A. Tiedt, L. Haney, 1913; J. A. Tiedt, Ph. Haney, 
1914; J. A. Tiedt, 1915. 

Cumberland, Tenn. — 

Wm. Wesseler, '67-68 (Discontinued). 

Danville — 

Spring- Grove, Wabash C. near Lafayette (Lafay- 
ette), Geo. Kloepfer, '59; (Wabash Cir., near Lafay- 
ette), to be supplied, 1862; Ph. Schwartz, 1863; D. S. Oakes, 
1865; E. L. Kiplinger, 1866-67; (Danville and Spring 
Grove), E. Condo, 1868; S. S. Albert, 1869; (Spring Grove 
only), S. S. Albert, 1870; H. E. Overmeyer, 1871-72; S. S. 
Condo, 1873; (Danville), J. Ressler, 1873; to be supplied, 
1874-75; L. W. Crawford, 1876; (Spring Grove), S. S. Con- 
do, 1874; L. W. Crawford, 1875; E. D. Einsel, 1876; (Spring 
Grove and Danville), E. D. Einsel, 1877-78; to be supplied, 
1879; discontinued in 1880. 

Dayton, 1st Church — (In the early days a part of the Miami 
Circuit of the Ohio Conf.) 
L. Schuerman, 1856 ; M. W. Steffey, 1857-58 ; Phil. Bretsch, 
1859-60; F. Wiethaup, 1861-62; J. Fox, 1863-64; J. M. Co- 
mer, 1865-66; M. Hoehn, 1867-68; M. W. Steffey, 1869-70; 
M. Klaiber, 1871-72 ; J. Kaufman, 1873-74-75 ; J. K. Troyer, 
1876-77; J. M. Gomer, 1878-79; C. F. Hansing, 1880-81; 
M. W. Steffey, 1882-83-84; M. Hoehn, 1885-86-87; C. C. 
Beyrer, 1888-89-90; C. F. Hansing, 1891; J. Hoffman, 1892- 
93-94-95-96 ; J. M. Haug, 1897-98-99-00; F. Schweitzer, 1901- 
02-03-04 ; J. H. Evans, 1905-06-07-08-09 ; C. Schuermeier, 
1910-11-12-13-14; D. E. Zechiel, 1915. 

Dayton, Wayne Ave. — 

A. 0. Raber, 1888-89-90-91; W. H. Brightmire, 1892-93; F. 
E. Zechiel, 1894-95-96-97 ; J. H. Breish, 1898-99-00-01 ; A. B. 

76 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Haist, 1902-03; G. B. Kimmel, 1904-05-06-07-08; E. Q. Lau- 
deman, 1909-10; J. H. Breish, 1911-12-13; C. Hirschman, 
1914-15. 

Decatur — (Originally a part of the St. Mary Circuit, later a mis- 
sion, circuit, and individual appointment.) 
H. R. Price, 1872; C. C. Beyrer, 1873; J. F. Bockman, 1874; 
J. Wales, 1875; Jos. Fisher, 1876-7; J. M. Dustman, 1881- 
2-3; A. R. Schafer, 1884-5; J. E. Stoops, 1886-7-8; F. W. 
Hart, 1889 ; F. L. Snyder, 1890-1 ; S. B. Kring, 1892-3 ; J. 
J. Wise, 1894-5; C. D. Wendall, 1896-7; W. H. Mygrant, 
1898-99; D. Martz, 1900; S. I. Zechiel, 1901-2; S. S. Albert, 
1903; A. B. Haist, 1904-5-6-7; D. O. Wise, 1908-9-10-11; 
J. H. Rilling, 1912-13-14-15. 

Defiance Circuit — (Part of DeKalb Circuit east of St. Joseph 
River.) 
G. A. Hertel, Alspauch, 1859 ; G. A. Hertel, 1860; B. Uphaus, 
1861-62 ; J. Kronmiller, 1863 ; J. Berger, 1864 ; P. Roth, 1865 ; 
A. Hartzler, 1866-67 ; S. S. Albert, 1868 ; D. J. Pontius, 1869 ; 
A. Hartzler, 1870; A. Hartzler, J. F. Bockman, 1871; A. 
Hartzler, A. Schafer, 1872 ; C. Schamo, S. Shoop, 1873 ; E. D. 
Einsel, J. M. Dustman, 1874; J. Bruckert, 1875; to be sup- 
plied, 1876-77; A. O. Raber, 1878-79; Wm. Ackerman, 1880; 
J. E. Smith, 1881; W. H. Mygrant, 1882; J. E. Stoops, 
1883 ; H. E. Hoover, 1884 ; P. A. Orth, 1885-86 ; T. Carroll, 
1887 ; H. E. Meyers, 1888 ; F. L. Snyder, 1889 ; S. H. Pon- 
tius, 1890; J. M. Dustman, 1891-92; F. L. Snyder, 1893-94; 
H. Steininger, 1895; H. Steininger, S. C. Cramer, 1896; 
W. S. Tracy, Ph. Buehler, 1897-98; J. W. Metzner, 1899- 
00-01; C. A. Rowe, 1902-03; D. A. Kaley, 1904-05; S. J. 
Kroft, 1906-07; J. E. Young, 1908-09; W. H. Mygrant, 
1910; C. D. Ringgenberg, 1911-12; F. L. Snyder, 1913-14; 
W. S. Tracy, 1915. 

Defiance Mission — (Taken from Defiance Circuit.) 

E. E. Hauser, E. H. Baumgartner, 1909; E. H. Baumgart- 
ner, 1910-11-12-13; E. 0. Haley, 1914; W. H. Flurkey. 

DeKalb Circuit — (This is one of the original circuits of the Con- 
ference, "a charter member," and was afterward di- 
vided into Waterloo and Kendallville Circuits.) 
To be suplied, 1852; J. M. Kronmiller, 1853; A. Nicolai, 
1854; A. Nicolai, F. Geisel, 1855; B. Uphaus and supply, 
1856; M. Mayer, C. Ude, 1857; M. Mayer, D. Bartholomew, 
1858; M. Alspauch, 1859; Fr. Geisel, 1860; G. A. Hertel, 

77 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1861-62; Wm. Bockman, C. Schamo, 1863; J. M. Kron- 
miller, 1864 ; J. M. Kronmiller, S. S. Albert, 1865 ; M. Krue- 
ger, 1866 ; S. Kiplinger, 1867 ; A. Parker, Geo. Wales, 1868 ; 

D. S. Oakes, J. Wales, 1869; D. S. Oakes, 1870; E. L. Kip- 
linger, E. F. Hochstettler, 1871 ; R. Riegel, E. Einsel, 1872, 
then divided into Waterloo and Kendallville Circuits. 

Dubois Circuit — (Also a "charter member" of the Conference, 
afterward divided into Huntingburg, Warrenton Cir- 
cuits, now Elberfeld and Rockport.) 
P. Burgener, G. Franzen, 1852 ; B. Uphaus, Wm. Bockman, 
1853; J. Keiper, Wm. Bockman, 1854; Wm. Wessler, M. 
Mayer, 1855; Phil. Bretsch, 1856; M. Hoehn, C. Wessling, 
1857; C. Wessling, 1858; John Fox, 1859. 
Edgerton Circuit — (Formerly a part of DeKalb.) 

E. Einsel, '75; B. F. Dill, '76-7-8; A. R. Schafer, '79-80; 
S. S. Albert, '81-2; A. Geist, '83-4; J. Bruckert, '85; W. H. 
Brightmire, '86; R. Rainey, '87-8; C. M. Pierce, '89; J. 
Rees, '90-1 ; E. E. Meyers, '92-3 ; J. M. Dustman, '94 ; J. M. 
Smith, '95-6; J. Rees, '97-8-9; C. McConnehey, 1900; C. H. 
Burgener, '01-2-3. 

Edgerton Mission — (A part of Edon, Waterloo, Edgerton Cir- 
cuits.) 
(Edon), W. H. Freshley, '07; (Edgerton), '08-9; J. M. 
Lantz, 1910-1-2; J. S. Kroft, '13; Ira Steele, '14-15. 

Edon — (See Edgerton Mission.) 

E. Germantown Circuit — (Originally a part of Whitewater Cir- 
cuit.) 
E. Evans, 1863; J. Rosenberg, 1864; C. Schamo, 1865-66; 
A. Parker, 1867 ; Geo. Kloepfer, 1868 ; Geo. Wales, 1869 ; J. 
Wales, 1870-71; E. Evans, 1872-3; S. S. Albert, 1874-5; J. 
Wales, 1876-77-78; J. H. Stedcke, 1879; A. O. Raber, 1880- 
81; D. S. Oakes, 1882; Ph. Orth, 1883-84; G. B. Holdeman, 
1885; W. H. Mygrant, 1886-87; Geo. Steininger, 1888-90; 
H. E. Overmeyer, 1890; J. M. Rogers, 1891; P. Buehler, 
1892-3; J. M. Smith, 1894; R. F. Jamison, 1895-6-7-8; A. 
Weisjahn, 1899; C. W. Spangler, 1900; E. J. Oliver (de- 
ceased), A. E. Weyrick, 1901-02; M. L. Scheidler, 1903; 
P. L. Browns, 1904-5 ; C. McConnehey, 1906 ; A. W. Feller, 
1907; D. A. Kaley, 1908-09; E. B. Jones, 1910; D. D. Spei- 
cher, 1911; C. H. Hartman, 1912; W. H. Flurkey, 1913-14; 
W. i. Weyant, 1915. 

Elberfeld — (Formerly a part of Dubois Circuit, later called War- 
renton, then Tabor.) 

78 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Wm. Wesseler, 1856; C. Wessling and M. Hoehn, 1857; J. 
M. Kronmiller, 1858 ; M. Klaiber, 1859 ; Wm. Bockman, 1860- 
61; J. Hoffman, 1862; Chr. Glaus, 1863-64; F. Wiethaup, 
J. Beck, 1865; F. Wiethaup, 1866; C. Wessling, 1867-68; 
H. L. Fisher, 1869-70 ; B. Uphaus, 1871-72 ; C. F. Mathias, 
1873-74; C. Kohlmeier, 1875 (suppHed by the South Ind. 
till 1892), (Tabor), J. Bruckert, 1893; J. Mundorf, 1894- 
95-96; Geo. Koch, 1897-98-99; D. D. Spangler, 1900-01; 
(Elberfeld), H. Gocker, 1902-03-04; to be supplied, 1905; 
J. A. Tiedt, 1906-07; G. A. Stierle, 1908-09-10; F. Reute- 
poehler, 1911-12-13; G. F. Winter, 1914; J. W. Feller, 1915. 

Elkhart, Bethel — (Organized in 1905 and with Salem of Mish- 
awaka C. was made a mission. In 1912 Paradise and 
Trout Cr. of the Mich. Conf. were added.) 

C. H. Burgener, '06-07; D. D. Spangler, '08-09-10-11-12; C. 
H. Hartman, '13-14-15. 

Elkhart Circuit — (A "charter member" of Conference.) 

Jos. Fisher, B. Ruh, 1852 ; J. Keiper, M. W. Steffey, 1853 
M. W. Steftey, P. Goetz, 1854 ; Chr. Glaus, H. Strickler, 1855 
A. Nicolai, M. Krueger, 1856 ; Geo. Kloepfer, D. Garl, 1857 
M. Alspauch, J. Huffman, 1858; R. Riegel, P. Roth, 1859 
Phil. Schwartz, P. Roth, 1860 ; Phil. Schwartz, B. Ruh, 1861 
Jos. Paulin, M. Speck, 1862; Jos. Paulin, Geo. Zimmer, 1863 
M. Krueger, 1864; M. Krueger, T. Kerstettler, 1865; Wm 
Bockman, E. Condo, 1866 ; D. S. Oakes, W. Haustedt, 1867 

D. S. Oakes, J. K. Troyer, 1868; J. Keiper, S. S. Condo 
1869; J. Keiper, E. T. Hochstettler, 1870; D. S. Oakes, W 
Wildermuth, 1871; W. Wildermuth, 1872; H. E. Overmeyer 
1873. 

Elkhart, Division St. — (United with the Watchtower Church 
and formed the 1st Church.) 
Jos. Fisher, 1867-68; J. Fox, 1869-70; G. A. Hertel, 1871- 
72; G. W. Braeckly, 1873-74; J. Beck, 1875; J. Huffman, 
1876-77; C. C. Baumgartner, 1878; M. W. Steffey, 1879-80- 
1881; C. F. Hansing, 1882-83-84; Geo. Roederer, 1885; 
Aug. Iwan, 1886-87; M. W. Steffey, 1888-89; J. Huffman, 
1890-91; S. Heininger, 1892; J. H. Evans, 1893-94; W. L. 
Luehring, 1895-96; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1897-98; Thos. Fink- 
beiner, 1899-00-01 ; M. W. Sunderman, 1902-03. 

Elkhart, 1st Church — (Formed by the union of Watchtower and 
Division St. Churches.) 
79 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

L. S. Fisher, '04-06; J. H. Breish, '07-10; L. S. Fisher, '11- 
13; E. W. Praetorius, '14-5. 

Elkhart, South Side — 

To be supplied, 1893 ; R. F. Jameson, 1894 ; J. Wales, 1895 ; 
A. B. Haist, 1896-97-98; S. I. Zechiel, 1899-00; discontinued 
from 1901 to 1905; N. F. Platz, 1905; Geo. Lutman, 1906- 
07; C. A. Wright, 1908; F. Rausch, 1909-10; J. L. Buyer, 
Sr., 1911-12-13-14-15. 

Elkhart, Watchtower — (United with the Division St. Church 
to form the 1st Church.) 
Jos. Fisher, 1874-75 ; C. C. Beyrer, 1876 ; A. Geist, 1877-79 ; 
J. Wales, 1880-81 ; A. O. Raber, 1882-83-84 ; D. Martz, 1885- 
86-87; S. B. Kring, 1888-89; W. H. Brightmire, 1890-91; M. 
L. Scheidler, 1892-93-94 ; A. S. Fisher, 1895-96-97-98 ; F. E. 
Zechiel, 1899 ; J. O. Hosier, 1900-01-02-03. 

Emmettsville — (United at times with Winchester, Greenville and 
finally with Ridgeville, which see.) 
S. C. Cramer, '02; P. S. Speicher, '95-6-7. United with 
Ridgeville '08. 

Enterfrise — (At times served with Lancaster, Grayville, West 
Salem Cir.) 
To be supplied, '94; J. L. Buyer, '95; G. F. Winter, '97; 
J. A. Tiedt, '01-2 ; F. Reutepoehler, '03-4-5-6 ; G. A. Stierle, 
'07 ; to be supplied, '08 ; G. F. Winter, '09-10-11 ; J. W. Fel- 
ler, '12-13. 

Evansville, 1st Church — (Originally a part of the Dubois Cir.) 
To be supplied, 1852; F. Wiethaup, 1853-54; Jos. Fisher, 
1855 ; M. Hoehn, 1856 ; J. Trometer, 1857 ; H. Kramer, 1858 ; 
A. B. Schaefer, 1859-60; J. Fox, 1861-62; M. Mayer, 1863- 
64; H. L. Fisher, 1865-66; C. F. Mathias, 1867; F. Wiethaup, 
1868-69 ; Jos. A. Maier, 1870-71 ; H. L. Fisher, 1872-73 ; M. 
Hoehn, 1874-75. (From 1876 to 1892 the South Ind. Conf. 
had charge of this field, and therefore no names here.) L. 
J. Ehrhardt, 1893 ; B. Schuermeier, 1894-95-96 ; W. L. Lueh- 
ring, 1897-98-99-00; C. Harms, 1901-02-03; W. L. Luehring, 
1904-05-06-07; M. W. Sunderman, 1908-09-10-11-12; M. L. 
Scheidler, 1913-14-15. 

Evansville Mission — 

Irvin Roederer, '15. 

Fulton Circuit^ — (Formerly Miami Mission, divided into De- 
fiance, Twin Lakes and Rochester Circuits, which see. 
This also was a "charter member.") 
80 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

J. Keiper and H. Strickler, 1852; P. Goetz, F. Schiierman, 
J. Ruchstuhl, 1853; B. Uphaus and supply, 1854; J. M. 
Kronmiller, Carl Heiden, 1855; J. M. Kronmiller, 1856; F. 
Wiethaup, 1857; P. Burgener, B. Ruh, 1858; A. Nicolai, 
J. M. Corner, 1859; A. Nicolai, D. Bartholomew, 1860; D. 
Bartholomew, Geo. Kloepfer, P. Roth, 1861 ; M. Alspauch, 

D. S. Oakes, 1862; Ceo. Kloepfer, B. Uphaus, 1863; Ceo. 
Zimmer, J. M. Condo, 1864; C. Zimmer, A. Parker, 1865; 

B. Hoffman, S. S. Albert, 1866; B. Hoffman, E. Condo, 1867; 
J. Keiper, J. Wales, 1868; C. Schamo, Wm. Lueder, 1869; 

C. Schamo, W. Wildermuth, 1870; Wm. Koenig, S. S. Al- 
bert, 1871; F. Launer, 1872-73; E. T. Hochstettler, A. Ceist, 
1874; E. T. Hochstettler, Ceo. Roederer, 1875; W. Wilder- 
muth, 1876 ; D. J. Pontius, 1877 ; D. J. Pontius, J. Bruckert, 
1878 ; J. M. Dustman, W. Wildermuth, 1879 ; J. M. Dustman, 
J. E. Smith, 1880. 

Ft. Recovery Circuit — (See Portland Circuit.) 

Ft. Wayne, Bethel — (Originally a part of St. Mary Cir.) 

M. W. Steffey, 1867-8; J. M. Comer, 1869-70; M. Krueger, 
1871; J. Schmidli, 1872-3; Ed. Evans, 1874-5; P. Roth, 
1876-7; Jos. Fisher, 1878-79; M. Hoehn, 1880-1-2; Jos. 
Fisher, 1883-4-5; J. Miller, 1886-7; D. D. Speicher, 1888- 
89; C. F. W. Hansing, 1890; Geo. Schmoll, 1891-2-3; S. H. 
Baumgartner, 1894-5-6-7; J. F. Bockman, 1898; J. H. Ev- 
ans, 1899-1900-1-2; D. E. Zechiel, 1903-4-5-6; E. Q. Laude- 
man, 1907-8; C. D. Rarey, 1909-10-11; C. E. Boyer, 1912; 

E. Q. Laudeman, 1913-14-15. 
Ft. Wayne, Crescent — 

C. Hirschman, '10-13; C. E. Boyer, '14-15. 
Crayville — (Sometimes composed Enterprise and at others New 
Harmony. Served by the South Indiana Conference 
until '93.) 
C. Koch, '93; R. Thiersch, '94-5; 0. Markman, '96-7; H. 
Cocker, '98-9-00-1; J. Mundorf, '02; B. E. Koenig, '03-4; 
S. J. Luehring, '05; I. H. Griesemer, '06-7-8-9-10; J. W. 
Feller, '11-2-3-4; Geo. Lozier, '15. 
Gilead — (See Akron.) 

Greenville Circuit — (Sometimes with Emmettsville, Winches- 
ter, E. Germantown.) 
Phil. Schwartz, Sol. Blaser, 1859 ; Ed. Evans, 1860-61 ; Geo. 
Kloepfer, 1862 ; E. L. Kiplinger, 1863 ; J. Hoffman, S. Kip- 
linger, 1864; J. Hoffman, 1865; P. Roth, A. Scholz, 1866; 

81 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

P. Roth, G. W. Wales, 1867; B. Uphaus, J. C. Schuh, 1868; 
B. Uphaus, E. R. Trover, 1869; C. Heim, E. R. Troyer, 
1870; C. Schamo, Prechtel, 1871-72; E. R. Troyer, 1873; 
E. R. Troyer, E. Bolander, 1874; B. Uphaus, C. F. W. Han- 
sing, 1875; E. T. Hochstettler, J. Schambers, 1876; E. T. 
Hochstettler, 1877-78; F. Launer, 1879-80. (From 1881 to 
1891 see Winchester.) 

Greenville Mission — 

R. F. Jameson, 1892-93; Phil. Buehler, 1894-95; J. M. Dust- 
man, 1896; E. E. Meyers, 1897; H. H. Reinoehl, 1898; J. 
Stedcke, 1899-00; C. W. Spangler, 1901-02; J. M. Lantz, 
1903 ; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1904-05 ; P. S. Speicher, 1906-07-08 ; 
G. D. Eastes, 1909-10-11; E. R. Roop, 1912-13-14; M. 0. 
Herman, 1914-15. 

Hamilton Mission — (A "charter member of Conference.") 

M. W. Steffey, '52; H. Strickler, '53; G. G. Platz, '54; J. 
Keiper, '55 ; H. Strickler, '56. 

HiCKSViLLE — (Served with Waterloo for a period, also with Edg- 
erton.) 
To be supplied, '85; S. B. Kring, '86-7; F. E. Zechiel, '88; 
M. L. Scheidler, '89-90 ; W. H. Mygrant, '91-2-3 ; F. J. Sted- 
cke, '94; H. E. Thompson, '95; J. M. Smith, '96 (united with 
Edgerton until 1899) ; A. B. Haist '99; E. E. Greiner, '00- 
1; W. H. Freshley, '02-03-04; C. D. Ringgenberg, '05-6; 
D. O. Wise, '07; C. H. Burgener, '08-9-10; C. H. Hartman, 
'11; P. L. Browns, '12; A. Geist, '13-4; W. H. Flurkey, '15. 

Huntingburg — (As a part of the Dubois Circuit, it was first a 
circuit, and finally settled into Maple Grove and Hunt- 
ingburg city.) 
J. Fox, 1860; Ch. Glaus, 1861-62; F. Wiethaup, 1863-64; 
Wm. Wesseler, 1865-66; H. L. Fisher, 1867-68; Geo. 
Schmoll, 1869; F. Wiethaup, 1870; F. Wiethaup, W. G. 
Braeckly, 1871; J. Kronmiller, W. G. Braeckly, 1872; J. 
Kronmiiler, 1873; C. Wessling, 1874-75. (From 1876 to 
'92 the South Ind. Conf. appointed this field.) G. M. Hall- 
wachs, 1893; G. Schmoll, 1894; H. Schleucher, 1895-96- 
97; J. E. Smith, 1898-99; D. D. Speicher, 1900-01-02; W. 
G. Braeckly, 1903-04-05; S. J. Luehring, 1906-07-08; D. E. 
Zechiel, 1909-10; W. G. Braeckly, 1911-12; A. B. Haist, 
1913-14-15. 

Huntington — (Taken from the western part of St. Mary's Cir- 
cuit.) 

82 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

B. Ruh, 1859; Jos. Paulin, 1860-61; Phil. Schwartz, 1862; 

D. S. Oakes, 1863 ; G. Kloepfer, 1864 ; A. Hartzler, 1865 ; J. 
A. Maier, 1866; S. S. Albert, 1867; R. Riegel, 1868-69; 

E. L. Kiplinger, 1870; H. Price, 1871; J. F. Bockman, 1872; 
W. Wildermuth, 1873-74; B. F. Dill, 1875; Geo. Roederer, 
1876; I. B. Fisher, 1877-78-79; A. Geist, 1880-81; D. J. 
Pontius, 1882; I. B. Fisher, 1883-84-85; Jos. Fisher, 1886- 
87; D. Martz, 1888-89; H. W. Fisher, 1890; Wm. Acker- 
man, 1891; J. Wales, 1892; J. W. Metzner, 1893-94; F. J. 
Stedcke, 1895; A. Geist, 1896; H. Steininger, 1897-98; C. 
M. Pierce, 1899-1900; D. Martz, 1901; J. J. Wise, 1902- 
03-04-05; C. D. Rarey, 1906-07; J. W. Metzner, 1908-09-10; 

C. H. Burgener, 1911-12-13; W. I. Weyant, 1914; R. W. 
Loose, 1915. 

Indianapolis, 1st Church — 

M. W. Steffey, 1856; H. Kramer, 1857; M. Hoehn, 1858-59; 
M. Krueger, 1860-61; A. B. Schafer, 1862; G. G. Platz, 
1863; J. M. Gomer, 1864; J. Fox, 1865-66; F. Wiethaup, 
1867; J. Kaufman, 1868-69; C. Tramer, 1870; M. Hoehn, 
1871-72-73 ; H. L. Fisher, 1874 ; C. Tramer, 1875-76-77 ; C. 

F. Hansing, 1878-79; Jos. Fisher, 1880-81-82; M. Hoehn, 
1883-84; M. W. Steffey, 1885-86-87; C. F. Hansing, 1888- 
89-90; J. M. Haug, 1891-92; H. Schleucher, 1893; F. 
Schweitzer, 1894-95-96; W. G. Braeckly, 1897-98; F. 
Rausch, 1899-00-01-02; J. H. Breish, 1903-04-05-06; S. H. 
Baumgartner, 1907-08; G. B. Kimmel, 1909-10-11-12-13; J. 
H. Breish, 1914-15. 

Indianapolis, 2nd Church — 

F. Stierle, 1893; to be supplied, 1894; no name given, 1895; 
Thos. Finkbeiner, 1896-97-98; I. H. Griesemer, 1899-00-01; 
J. Kaufman, 1902-03-04 ; F. Schweitzer, 1905-06 ; C. Harms, 
1907; C. F. Hansing, 1908; D. D. Speicher, 1909-10; E. J. 
Nitsche, 1911-12-13-14-15. 

Indianapolis, Grace — 

G. B. Kimmel, 1900-01-02-03; J. O. Mosier, 1904-05-06; D. 
E. Zechiel, 1907-08; C. F. Boyer, 1909-10; J. W. Carter, 
1911; F. Hartman, 1912-13-14; M. W. Sunderman, 1915. 

Indianapolis. North-east Mission — 

J. M. Gomer, 1871-72; M. Klaiber, 1873-74; C. F. Hansing, 

1875-76-77; C. Tramer, 1878-79; to be supplied, 1880. 

Wrecked by tornado and discontinued. 
Ionia Mission — (Transferred to Mich. Conf.) 

Chr. Ude, '61 ; J. Trometer, '62-63. 

83 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

JONESBORO— (See Mound City and Cairo.) 

JULIETTA — (Later served with Indianapolis, 2nd Church.) 

J. Bruckert, '76-7; J. Maurer, '79; J. C. Schuh, '81; C. 
Tramer, '82-83; M. Hoehn, '85; to be supplied, '86-7; J. 
Rees, '88-9 ; D. D. Spangler, '90-1 ; S. S. Albert, '92. 
Kendallville — (Taken from DeKalb Circuit, and was later di- 
vided into Kendallville Station and Avilla.) 
R. Riegel, E. Einsel, 1873; M. Krueger, '74; G. Freehafer, 
'75-6; C. C. Beyrer, '77-8; D. S. Oakes, 1879-80-1; J. Wales, 
'82 ; J. Wales, D. E. Hoover, '83; J. M. Dustman, W. Bright- 
mire, '84; A. Geist, '85-6; S. S. Albert, '87; Jos. Fisher, 
1888-9; S. B. Kring, 1890-1; S. H. Baumgartner, '92-3; W. 
H. Mygrant, '94-5-6; J. O. Mosier, '97-8-9; A. B. Haist, 
1900-1; J. H. Breish, '02; S. I. Zechiel, '03-4; J. W. Metz- 
ner, '05-6-7; P. L. Browns, '08-9; W. H. Freshley, '10-1-2- 
3-4; J. H. Evans, 1915. 

Kalamazoo — (See Calhoun.) 

KOKOMO — (First Y. P. A. Mission.) 

A. S. Fisher, '02-05; J. J. Wise, '06-07; M. L. Scheidler, 
'08-12; B. G. Smith, '13-5. 

Lake Creek — 

J. Mode, '75, supplied afterward by South Ind. Conf . ; dis- 
continued. 

Lake Bruce — (Bruce Lake, Tippecanoe, Leiter's Ford, Lake 
Bruce, originally a part of Fulton Circuit.) 
To be supplied, '88; J. Wales, '89-90; S. S. Albert, '91; D. 
D. Spangler, '92 ; J. M. Smith, '93 ; W. S. Tracy, '94-5 ; J. 
Wales, '96 ; R. Rainey, '97 ; E. E. Meyers, '98 ; W. E. Sny- 
der, E. Werner, '99; J. Wales, B. Werner, '00. (Tippe- 
canoe) , C. D. Ringgenberg, '01 ; J. Boehyer, '02 ; A. D. Ka- 
ley, '03; A. E. Weyrick, '04-5; L. E. Smith, '06. (Leiter's 
Ford), L. E. Smith, '07. (Lake Bruce), L. E. Smith, '08; 
Ira Steele, '09-10-1; C. W. Schlemmer, '12-3-4; R. W. Hand- 
schu, '15. 

Lakeville — (A part of Elkhart Cir.) 

H. H. Reinoehl, '10-11 ; N. F. Platz, '12^13-14-15. 

Laporte — 

J. M. Gomer, '76-7 ; J. Hoffman, '78-9-80 ; G. Schmoll, '81- 
2-3 ; A. Iwan, '84 ; discontinued. 

Lancaster — (See West Salem Circuit.) 
Lafayette— (See Danville.) 

84 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Linn Grove — (Formerly Vera Cruz and Newville.) 

J. Fox, 1854; F. Wiethaup, 1855-56; B. Uphaus, 1857-58; 
Chr. Glaus, 1859-60 ; M. Hoehn, 1861-62 ; C. Wessling, 1863- 
64; Phil. Porr, 1865-66; J. Fox, 1867-68; Geo. Hertel, 1869- 
70; J. K. Troyer, 1871-72; Chr. Glaus, 1873-74; E. R. 
Troyer, 1875-76-77; J. Miller, 1878-79; Geo. Roederer, 
1880-81-82; C. C. Beyrer, 1883-84-85; J. Hoffman, 1886-87; 
J. Bruckert, 1888-89; J. H. Evans, 1890; (Vera Cruz), 
J. H. Evans, 1891-92; M. Krueger, 1893; N. J. Platz, 1894- 
95-96; D. D. Spangler, 1897-98-99; J. H. Rilling, 1900-01; 
J. F. Bockman, 1902; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1903; (Linn Grove), 
E. E. Greiner, 1904-05-06; J. L. Buyer, Sr., 1907-08; J. 
Rees, 1909-10; D. R. Heil, 1911-12-13-14-15. 

liOGANSPORT — 

Wm. Koenig, '74-5; to be supplied, '76; Aug. Iwan, '77-8; 
M. Hoehn, '79 ; C. Tramer, '80 ; J. C. Schuh, '81-2 ; H. Arlen, 
'83; J. H. Schnitz, '84; H. E. Overmeyer, '85-6; D. D. 
Speicher, '87; G. B. Holdeman, '88; Jos. Fisher, '90-1-2; to 
be supplied, '93; S. I. Zechiel, '94; W. E. Snyder, '95-6; J. 
Wales, '97-8; S. C. Cramer, '99-00-1; H. Steininger, '02- 
3; F. F. McClure, '04; A. Geist, '05-6; G. D. Eastes, '07-8; 
C. W. Schlemmer, '09; J. W. Carter, '10; E. E. Hauser, '11; 
J. S. Kroft, '12; E. B. Jones, F. F. McClure, '13; E. R. 
Roederer, '14 ; J. W. Carter, 1915. 

Louisville, Trinity — (Organized in 1889 by C. Stockhowe, who 
served it at first, then was followed by Young, who 
were appointed by the South Ind. Conf.) 

B. Schuermeier, 1893; I. H. Griesemer, 1894-5; D. B. Koe- 
nig, 1896-7; S. I. Zechiel, 1898; R. F. Jamison, 1899-00- 
01-02; F. S. Erne, 1903-4-5-6; E. W. Praetorius, 1907-8-9- 
10-11; D. 0. Wise, 1912-3-4; L. E. Smith, 1915. 

Louisville, West Side Mission — 

J. Maurer, 1872; C. F. Hansing, 1873-4-5. Afterward sta- 
tioned by the So. Ind. Conf. until it ceased as an appoint- 
ment. 

Louisville, Zion — 

M. Mayer, 1865-6 ; M. Klaiber, 1867-8 ; M. Hoehn, 1869-70 ; 

C. Tramer, 1871-2; M. Speck, 1873-4-5. (From 1876 to 
1892, the S. Ind. Conf. appointed this field.) W. L. Lueh- 
ring, 1893-4; F. Rausch, 1895-6-7-8; I. B. Fisher, 1899- 
1900-1; Geo. Roederer, 1902-3-4-5; W. G. Braeckly, 1906- 
7-8-9-10; D. E. Zechiel, 1911-2-3-4; B. E. Koenig, 1915. 

85 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Markle Circuit — (Detached from Markle Station.) 
E. Snyder, '14; F. F. McClure, 15. 

Markle Station — (A part of Huntington Cir.) 

W. S. Tracy, '92-3 ; J. Rogers, '94 ; S. I. Zechiel, '95-6 ; S. A. 
Elzy, '99-00; J. E. Stoops, '01; E. E. Greiner, '02-3; C. H. 
Burgener, '04; F. L. Snyder, '05; P. L. Browns, '06; C. E. 
Geist, '07-8; E. E. Miller, 1909-10-11-12-13; R. W. Loose, 
'14; C. W. Schlemmer, '15. 

Marshall Circuit — (A "charter member" of Conf.) 

Fr. Wiethaup, 1852; B. Ruh, 1853-54; P. Burgener, 1855 
Wm. Bockman, 1856; J. M. Kronmiller, 1857; M. Klaiber 
1858; Jos. Paulin, 1859; J. M. Kronmiller, 1860; J. Huff- 
man, Geo. Schmoll, 1861 ; M. Mayer, 1862 ; Chr. Ude, 1863 
G. G. Platz, 1864; Chr. Glaus, 1865; Phil. Miller, 1866; Geo 
Schmoll, 1867-68; J. Miller, 1869; C. F. Mathias, J. Maurer 
1870; C. F. Mathias, C. Stockhowe, 1871-72; J. C. Schuh 
1873-74; P. Roth, 1875. Between 1876-1892, the South 
Ind. Conf. supplied this field, hence no names.) J. A. Tiedt 
1893-94; C. Harms, 1895-96-97-98; J. H. Rilling, 1899; G 
Koch, 1900; G. F. Winter, 1901-02; J. Mundorf, 1903-04- 
05; E. J. Nitsche, 1906-07-08-09-10; I. H. Griesemer, 1911 
L. J. Ehrhardt, 1912-13-14-15. 

Medaryville — (See San Pierre.) 

Miami Circuit — (A "charter member" of Conf. Divided into 
Greenville Circuit and Montgomery Mission.) 
J. Keiper, P. Goetz, '56; C. Glaus, B. Ruh, '57; C. Glaus, 
P. Schwartz, '58. 

Miami Mission — (A "charter member" of Conference. See Ful- 
ton Circuit.) 

MiSHAWAKA — (At first quite a large circuit, now a station.) 

M. Krueger, 1872-3 ; D. S. Oakes, 1874-5 ; D. S. Oakes, Wm. 
Ackerman, 1876 ; J. F. Bockman, 1877-8 ; E. T. Hochstettler, 
1879 ; H. Arlen, 1880 ; H. Prechtel, 1881-2 ; H. E. Overmeyer, 
1883; W. Wildermuth, 1884-5; A. R. Schafer (deceased), 
J. Bruckert, 1886-7 ; S. S. Albert, F. L. Snyder, 1888 ; S. S. 
Albert, 1889-90; F. Rausch, 1891-2; J. Wales, 1893; M. 
Krueger, 1894; D. D. Speicher, 1895-6; A. Geist, 1897-8; 
W. S. Tracy, 1899-00-1-2; L. Newman, 1903-4-5-6; F. 
Rausch, 1907-8; A. S. Fisher, 1909-10-11; H. Schleucher, 
1912; D. D. Spangler, 1913-4-5. 

MISSISSINAWA — (A part of Montgomery Cir., Phillipsburg.) 
J. Hoffman. '63; S. Kiplinger, '64; Geo. Kloepfer, '65. 

86 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Mound City and Cairo — (Also Jonesboro.) 

J. A. Maier, '74; (Jonesboro), J. A. Maier, 75. (Supplied 
by South Indiana Conf. after 75. Discontinued.) 

Mt. Carmel Circuit— (A "charter member" of Conference.) 

Fr. Wiethaup, 1852; Jos. Fisher, 1853-54; Wm. Bockman, 
1855; Jos. Fisher, C. Wessling, 1856; J. Fox, 1857; C. Kohl- 
meier, 1858; J. M. Kronmiller, 1859; John Huffman, 1860- 
61; Geo. Schmoll, 1861; M. Klaiber, 1862; C. Kohlmeier, 
H. L. Fisher, A. Parker, 1864; Chr. Glaus, 1865; J. Ber- 

ger, A. J. Miller, ; J. Berger, P. Miller, ; J. M. 

Gomer, 1868. 

Mt. Carmel Station — (See circuit.) 

John Huffman, 1869; Geo. Kloepfer, 1870; J. M. Kronmil- 
ler, 1871 ; J. A. Maier, 1872-73 ; H. Schleucher, 1874-75. (In 
the years 1876-1892 the South Indiana Conf. supplied this 
field, and hence no appointments appear here.) I. H. Griese- 
mer, 1893; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1894-95-96; B. Schuermeier, 
1897; J. L. Buyer, 1898-99-00; 0. L. Markman, 1901-02-03; 
H. Schleucher, 1904-05; C. P. Maas, 1906-07-08; C. E. Geist, 
1909-10-11-12-13; L. E. Smith, 1914; D. 0. Wise, 1915. 

Murphysboro — 

Geo. Berstecher, 75 ; afterward supplied by South Ind. 

Conf. and discontinued. 
Nappanee Circuit — (Bourbon added in '11. Also Bremen Mis- 
sion and Yellow River Mission.) 

J. W. Metzner, '91-2; H. H. Reinoehl, '93-4-5-6; S. Hoffer- 

bert, 97-8; H. H. Reinoehl, '99-00-1-2; C. D. Rarey, '03-4-5; 

A. S. Fisher, '06-7-8; F. B. Walmer, '09-0; A. B. Aegerter, 

'11-2-3; E. Greiner, '14-15. 

Nappanee Mission — 

L. E. Smith, '11-2-3; E. E. Miller, '14-15. See Nappanee 
Cir. 

New Harmony — (United with Grayville, 1901.) 
0. L. Markman, '98-9-00. 

New Paris — 

Jos. Fisher, 1872-3; H. E. Overmeyer, 1874; D. S. Oakes, 
1875; J. F. Bockman, 1876; A. R. Schafer, 1877-8; S. S. 
Albert, H. Arlen, 1879; S. S. Albert, 1880; C. C. Beyrer, 
1881-2; D. Martz, 1883-4; J. M. Dustman, 1885; J. M. Dust- 
man, D. D. Speicher, 1886; J. M. Dustm.an, 1887; J. E. 
Smith, S. Hofferbert, 1888; J. E. Smith, 1889-90; A. Geist, 

87 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1891-2-3; T. Carroll, 1894; J. Rees, 1895-6; W. H. Mygrant, 
1897; J. J. Wise, 1898-9-0-1; J. E. Stoops, 1902-3; D. D. 
Spangler, 1904-5-6-7; A. A. Knepper, 1908-9-10-1; Ira 
Steele, 1912-3; F. F. McClure, 1914; J. E. Young, 1915. 

Newville — (See Linn Grove and Vera Cruz.) 

North Liberty — (New Liberty Mission, West South Bend.) 

J. Wales, '01-2; (West South Bend), '03; M. W. Sunderman, 
"04; N. F. Platz, '05; (New Liberty Mission), I. G. Spen- 
cer, '06-7. Discontinued, '08. 

North Webster — (A part of Elkhart Circuit.) 

J. Bruckeit, '79-80-1 ; A. Geist, '82 ; W. H. Brightmire, '83 ; 
J. Wales, '84; W. H. Brightmire, '85; G. B. Holderman, '86- 
7; J. F. Bockman, '88; F. E. Zechiel, '89-90; S. H. Pontius, 
'91-2; S. Beverly, '93; E. E. Meyers, '94-5; R. Rainey, '96; 
S. C. Cramer, '97-8; Ph. Buehler, '99-00; L. Newm.an, '01- 
02; A. F. Wiesjahn, '03; F. B. Walmer, 1904-5; D. R. Heil, 
'06-7-8-9-10; F. F. Howell, '11; A. D. Kroft, '12-3; J. M. 
Kistler, '14-5. 

Olney Circuit — (A part of Mt. Carmel Circuit.) 

P. Burgener, 1854; B. Ruh, 1855; Jos. Fisher, C. Wessling, 
1856; D. Bartholomew, C. Kohlmeier, 1857; J. Fox, 1858; 

C. Wessling, 1859; C. Kohlmeier, 1860; Wm. Wesseler, 

1861-62; Geo. Schmoll, 1863; , 1864; J. Berger, 

1865; Chr. Glaus, 1866-67; J. M. Kronmiller, 1868-69; J. 
Kaufman, 1870; J. Huffman, 1871. 

Oi>NEY Station — (See Olney Circuit.) 

J. Kaufman, 1872; C. Tramer, 1873-74; W. G. Braeckly, 
1875. (1876 to 1892, the South Ind. Conf. had the appoint- 
ing of this field.) F. Rausch, 1893-94 ; Geo. Roederer, 1895- 
96-97; D. B. Koenig, 1898-99; B. Schuermeier, 1900-01-02 

D. D. Speicher, 1903-04; M. W. Sunderman, 1905-06-07 
A. B. Haist, 1908-09-10-11-12; M. W. Sunderman, 1913-14 
C. P. Maas, 1915. 

Ohio City — (Separated into St. Peter's and Chattanooga.) 

E. R. Roop, '09. 
Owensboro — (See Rockport.) 
Paulding — (See Scott-Cavett.) 

A. Wiesjahn, '00; W. H. Freshley, '01; G. C. Lutman, '02; 
C. D. Ringgenberg, '03. 
Payne— (Of St. Mary Cir.) 

E. B. Kern, '91; Wm. Ackerman, '92; R. Rainey, '93; Wm. 
Riley, '94-5 ; P. Buehler, '96 ; J. M. Smith, '97-8. 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Peru — 

E. J. Oliver, '99-00; F. F. McClure, '01-2-3; B. Schuermeier, 
'04; F. F. McClure, '05; W. E. Snyder, '06-7; C. Harms, 
'08; P. L. Speicher, '09; E. C. Ewalcl, '10; C. P. Maas, 
'12-3-4; F. J. Stedcke, '15. 

Phillipsburg — (Montgomery, a part of Miami Circuit.) 

D. Bartholomew, 1859; M. Mayer, 1860; J. M. Kronmiller, 
1861-62; D. Bartholomew, 1863; B. Hoffman, 1864; G. 
Schmoll, J. C. Schuh, 1865-66; Wm. Bookman, 1867; J. A. 
Maier, 1868 ; J. K. Troyer, 1869-70 ; J. Maurer, E. R. Troyer, 
1871; E. R. Troyer, F. Brauner, 1872; J. Hoffman, 1873- 
74-75; J. Beck, 1876-77; J. C. Schuh, 1878-79; J. Miller, 
1880-81-82; F. Launer, 1883; F. Rausch, 1884-85; C. Tra- 
mer, 1886-87; L. J. Ehrhardt, 1888; Geo. Schmoll, 1889-90; 
B. F. Snyder, 1891; (Phillipsburg), L. J. Ehrhardt, 1892; 
H. Cocker, 1893-94-95; E. E. Meyer, 1896-97; J. A. Tiedt, 
1898-99-00; P. S. Speicher, 1901-02-03-04; E. E. Miller, 
1905-06-07-08; W. A. Stowell, 1909; C. D. Ringgenberg, 
1910; A. Geist, 1911-12; D. P. Claypool, 1913; J. Mundorf, 
1914-15. 

Portland Circuit — (Ft. Recovery.) 

D. J. Pontius, '81; B. F. Dill, '82; J. C. Schuh, '83-4; H. E. 
Meyers, '87; T. Carroll, '88-9; H. H. Reinoehl, '90-1; S. Hof- 
ferbert, '92-3; R. Rainey, '94-5; C. M. Pierce, '96; P. L. 
Browns, '97-8; J. M. Smith, '99-00; F. L. Snyder, '01-2-3 
W. S. Tracy, '04 ; J. Rees, '05-6-7-8 ; C. D. Overmeyer, '09 
(Portland Cir.), J. E. Young, '10-11; W. I. Weyant, '12-3 

E. H. Baumgartner, '14-15. 
Portland Mission — 

L. S. Fisher, '85 ; I. B. Fisher, '87 ; W. H. Brightmire, '88-9 ; 
Ph. A. Orth, '90 ; F. E. Zechiel, '91-2-3 ; H. Thompson, '94 ; 

F. L. Snyder, '95-6-7; J. E. Stoops, '98-9; M. W. Sunder- 
man, '00-01 ; C. W. Spangler, '02-3-4 ; W. H. Mygrant, '05- 
6; F. S. Erne, '07-8; L. E. Smith, '09; C. H. Hartman, '10; 
E. R. Roop, '11 ; J. W. Carter, '12; F. F. McClure, '13; Geo. 
Lozier, '14; J. Arndt, '15. 

Pulaski — (See San Pierre.) 

RiDGEVILLE — 

W. E. Snyder, '08-9-10-11-12; J. W. Carter, '13-4; G. F. 
Zuber, '15. 
Richmond — Geo. Schmoll, 1864; B. Hoffman, 1865; J. Hoffman, 
1866-67; J. A. Mayer, 1868-69; Wm. Koenig, 1870. (Made 

89 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

a part of Montgomery Cir. in 1871.) H. P. Prechtel, 1873; 
J. Schmidli, 1874-75; J. Wales, 1876; Geo. Roederer, 1877- 
78-79. (Added to E. Germantown, 1880.) 

Rochester Circuit — 

J. Wales, '85-6-7-8 ; J. Hoffman, '89 ; D. J. Pontius, '90 ; W. 
Wildermuth, '91 ; J. M. Rogers, '92-3. 

Rochester Station — 

H. Arlen, '81-2; L. S. Fisher, '83-4; A. O. Raber, '85-6-7; 
H. E. Neff, '88-9; D. Martz, '90; S. H. Baumgartner, '91; 
A. S. Fisher, '92-3-4; C. W. Spangler, '95-6-7-8; M. L. 
Scheidler, '99-00-1; W. H. Mygrant, '02-3; A. Geist, '04; E. 
Q. Laudeman, '05-6; L. Newman, '07-8; J. H. Rilling, '09- 
10-11; C. A. Wright, '12-13; G. Pullman, '14-5. 

HOCKPORT — (Owensboro, a part of Dubois Circuit.) 

E. L. Kiplinger, 1860 ; C. F. Mathias, 1868-69 ; Geo. Schmoll, 
1870-71-72; H. Schleucher, 1873; N. J. Platz, 1874; M. 
Koehl, 1875. (From 1876 to 1892, the South Ind. Conf. 
appointed this field.) (Owensboro), 1893, R. Thiersch; 
(Rockport), G. F. Winter, 1894-95; J. L. Buyer, 1896-97; 
J. W. Feller, 1898; B. E. Koenig, 1899-00; F. S. Erne, 1901- 
02 ; G. F. Winter, 1903-04 ; to be supplied, '05 ; J. Mundorf , 
1906-07; J. A. Tiedt, 1908-09-10; C. Harms, 1911-12-13-14- 
15. 

Royal Center — 

Wm. Ackerman, '81; J. C. Schuh, '82 (added to Logansport 
until 1890), Ph. Buehler, '90-1; to be supplied, "92-95; W. S. 
Tracy, 1896 ; W. E. Snyder, '97-8 ; W. E. Snyder, E. Werner, 
'99; J. Wales, '00; A. J. Wiesjahn, '01-2; W. S. Tracy, '03; 
D. R. Heil, '04-5; D. A. Kaley, 1906-7; S. J. Kroft, '08-9-10- 
1 ; F. B. Walmer, '12-3-4-5. 

San Pierre — (Medaryville, Pulaski, N. Liberty, Wanatah.) 

D. Bartholomew, 1864; Chr. Ude, 1865; (Pulaski), A. Par- 
ker, 1866; (N. Liberty), Chr. Ude, '66; J. Keiper, 1867; 
(Medaryville), Chr. Heim, 1868-69; Wm. Lueder, 1870-71- 
72; (Wanatah), P. Roth, 1873-74; J. Miller, 1875-76-77; 
Wm. Koenig, 1878-79-80; Aug. Iwan, 1881-82; (Medary- 
ville), Aug. Iwan, 1883; C. F. W. Hansing, 1884-85-86; H. 
Weisshaar, 1887-88-89; J. A. Tiedt, 1890; (Wanatah), A. 
Iwan, 1885; J. C. Schuh, 1886; A. S. Fisher, 1887-88; W. 
Wildermuth, 1889; B. F. Snyder, 1890; (Medaryville), J. 
A. Tiedt, 1891-92; E. Bolander, 1893-94; M. Krueger, 1895; 
(Wanatah), D. E. Zechiel, 1895; (Medaryville), M. Krue- 
ger, C. Kalwitz, 1896 ; J. Mundorf, 1897-98-99 ; J. W. Fel- 

90 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

ler, 1900; (San Pierre), 1901; E. C. Ewald, 1902-03-04; 
G. F. Winter, 1905; G. F. Winter, G. A. Stierle, 1906; 
J. L. Winter, 1905; G. I. Winter, G. A. Stierle, 1906; G. F. 
Winter, 1907-08; J. L. Buyer, 1909-10; J. Mundorf, 1911-12- 
13; F. Reutepoehler, 1914-15. 

Scott — (Cavett.) 

(Cavett), C. D. Ringg-enberg, '04; (Scott), S. D. Rainey, 
'05-6-7; F. J. Stedcke, '08; A. D. Kroft, '09; G. F. Zuber, 
'10-1-2-3; A. B. Aegerter, '14-15. 

Silver Lake — (See Warsaw). 
J. Ressler, 1872. 

Shelby — (See Camp Creek.) 

South Bend, 1st Church — (See cir.) 

C. Kohlmeier, 1859; M. Hoehn, 1860. (In 1861-62 was 
temporarily united with the circuit on account of war con- 
ditions). A. B. Schafer, 1863-64; Ed. Evans, 1865; J. 
Kaufman, 1866-67; Chr. Glaus, 1868-69; J. Berger, 1870- 
71-72; J. M. Corner, 1873-74-75; M. Hoehn, 1876-77-78; J. 
Berger, 1879; F. F. Meyer, 1880-81-82; Geo. Roederer, 
1883-84; C. F. Hansing, 1885-86-87; M. Hoehn, 1888-89; 
M. W. Steffey, 1890-91-92; W. G. Braeckly, 1893-94-95-96; 
F. Schweitzer, 1897-98-99; E. J. Nitsche, 1900-01-02-03; 
F. Rausch, 1904-05-06; H. Schleucher, 1907-08-09; J. H. 
Evans, 1910-11-12-13-14; W. H. Freshley, 1915. 

South Bend Circuit — (Taken from Elkhart Circuit.) 

Geo. Eckhart, 1854; J. Fox, 1855; J. Fox, B. Ruh, 1856; Jos. 
Fisher, 1857-58; E. L. Kiplinger, 1859; R. Riegel, 1860; 
A. B. Schaefer, M. Speck, 1861; Wm. Bockman, C. Ude, 
1862; J. M. Gomer, 1863; P. Roth, 1864; Geo. A. Hertel, 
1865-66; Chr. Ude, 1867; B. Hoffm.an, 1868-69; S. Kip- 
linger, 1870-71. 

South Bend, Grace — (Beulah, also part of N. Liberty and West 
South Bend.) 
J. Wales, 1903 ; M. W. Sunderman, 1904 ; N. F. Platz, 1905- 
06-07; F. F. McClure, 1908; L. Newman, 1909-10; W. H. 
Mygrant, 1911; D. D. Speicher, 1912-13-14-15. 

South Bend Mission — (Discontinued in '73 and united with the 
1st Church.) C. C. Beyrer, 1872. 

South Bend, Mizpah — 

J. Wales, W. S. Mills, 1893; J. Wales, 1894; M. L. Scheid- 
ler, 1895-96-97-98; L. S. Fisher, 1899-00-01; Thos. Fink- 
beiner, 1902-03; D. Martz, 1904; J. H. Rilling, 1905-06-07- 
08; F. Hartman, 1909-10; J. 0. Mosier, 1911-12-13-14-15. 

91 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

St. Louis — 

To be supplied, '65-66 ; J. Young, 74-75. 
St. Joseph Circuit — (Transferred to Michigan Conference in 
'64.) 

B. Uphaus, M. Alspauch, '56; M. Alspauch, '58; P. Bur- 
gener, '59 ; P. Schwilli, '60-61 ; Peter Roth, '62-63. 

St. Mary Circuit — (A "charter member" of Conference. A 
mother of many fields.) 
A. Nicolai, F. Schuerman, 1852; A. Nicolai, J. Fox, 1853 
J. M. Kronmiller, H. Strickler, 1854; G. Goetz, C. Wessling 
1855; P. Burgener, 1856; P. Burgener, J. Paulin, 1857 
A. Nicolai, E. L. Kiplinger, 1858; B. Uphaus, Ed. Evans 
1859 ; B. Uphaus, M. Alspauch, 1860 ; R. Riegel, Fr. Geisel 
1861; M. Krueger, P. Thornton, 1862; M. Krueger, 1863 
D. S. Oakes, 1864; Peter Wiest, 1865; D. S. Oakes, 1866 
Jos. A. Mayer, 1867 ; Ad. Hartzler, 1868-69 ; P. Roth, S. S 
Condo, 1870-71; G. W. Freehafer, 1872-73; Fr. Launer, S 
Shoop, 1874 ; J. E. Smith, 1875 ; S. S. Albert, 1876-77 ; Fr 
Launer, 1878; W. Ackerman, 1879; I. B. Fisher, 1880-81-82 
J. Bruckert, 1883-84; J. C. Schuh, 1885; F. Rausch, 1886- 
87; J. Miller, 1888; S. Hofferbert, 1889-90-91; H. H. Rein- 
oehl, 1892. 

St. Peter — (A part of Van Wert.) 

C. W. Schlemmer, '10-11; E. B. Jones, '12; F. C. Wachnitz, 
'13; W. H. Mygrant, '14-15. 

Sulphur Springs — (Added to Indianapolis Mission in '71.) 

J. C. Schuh, '69-70. 
Syracuse — 

H. H. Reinoehl, '03-4; C. W. Spangler, '05-6; C. E. Boyer, 
'07-8; C. A. Wright, '09-10-11; W. H. Mygrant, '12-3; C. 
H. Burgener, '14-15. 
Spikerville — (See Wabash Circuit.) 
Spring Grove — (See Danville.) 
Star City — (See Common Center.) 
Tabor— (See Elberfeld.) 

Terre Haute — (Taken up by South Indiana Conference in 1881 
by J. F. Young and was served by Young, Stockhowe, 
Braeckly, Fuchs, Young, under the South Indiana Con- 
ference. For several years Brazil was served with it.) 
Wm. Koenig, '93; E. J. Nitsche, '94-5-6-7; B. Schuermeier, 
'98-9; F. Schweitzer, '00 ; W. L. Luehring, '01-2-3; C. Harms, 
'04; E. C. Ewald, '05-6-7-8-9; L. J. Ehrhardt, '10-11; E. W. 
Praetorius, '12-13; C. E. Geist, '14-15. 

92 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

Tippecanoe — (See Lake Bruce.) 

H. E. Overmeyer, '84. 
Urbana — (Part of Wabash.) 

J. Wales, '91; W. Wildermuth, '92; J. M. Dustman, '93; 

A. Geist, '94-5; J. E. Stoops, '96-7; F. E. Zechiel. '98; A. 
Geist, '99-0-1-2; F. Rausch, '03; M. L. Scheidler, '04-5-6-7; 

F. L. Snyder, '08-9-0-1 ; A. A. Knepper, '12-3-4-5. 
Van Wert— (Taken from St. Mary Circuit.) 

G. A. Heitel, 1863-64; Chr. Wesseling, 1865-66; Ph. Porr, 
1867-68; Wm. Wesseler, 1869-70; J. Keiper, 1871-72; J. F. 
Bockman, 1873; J. Wales, 1874; C. C. Beyrer, 1875; S. S. 
Albert, 1876; to be supplied, 1877; S. S. Albert, 1878; B. 
F. Dill, 1879-80-81; J. E. Smith, 1882-83-84; S. S. Albert, 
1885-86; H. Arlen, J. H. Evans, 1887; F. Rausch, 1888-89- 
90; J. E. Smith, 1891-92; Wm. Ackerman, 1893-94; D. D. 
Spangler, 1895-96; D. D. Speicher, 1897-98-99; D. B. Koe- 
nig, 1900-01-02; Aug. Geist, 1903; J. E. Stoops, 1904-05- 
06; W. H. Mygrant, 1907-08-09; F. J. Stedcke, 1910-11-12- 
13-14; B. Schuermeier, 1915. 

Vandalia Mission — (Taken from Marshall Circuit.) 

J. Trometer, 1858-59; C. Wesshng, 1860-61; Geo. Schmoll, 

1862; Wm. Wesseler, 1863; Wm. Wesseler, J. Beck, 1864; 

M. Klaiber, Aug. Scholz, 1865 ; M. Klaiber, F. Launer, 1866 ; 

C. Schamo, 1867-68; Geo. Kloepfer, 1869; F. Launer, 1870- 

71; E. T. Hochstettler, 1872-73; C. Stockhowe, 1874-75. 

(Was ceded to the South Indiana Conf.) 
Vera Cruz — (See Linn Grove.) 
Waupecong — (See Bunker Hill.) 
Wabash City — (See Miami Mission, Fulton.) 

J. Miller, 1872-73; C. C. Beyrer, 1874; Fr. Launer, 1875; 

C. C. Baumgartner, 1876-77; J. K. Troyer, 1878-79; Geo. 

Schmoll, 1880; E. R. Troyer, 1881-82; J. Berger, 1883; 

Geo. Schmoll, 1884-85; C. C. Beyrer, 1886-87; J. Hoffman, 

1888; Geo. Roederer, 1889-90-91; D. D. Speicher, 1892-93- 

94; J. E. Smith, 1895-96-97; S. H. Baumgartner, 1898; A. 

S. Fisher, 1899-00-01; J. H. Rilling, 1902-03-04; C. H. 

Burgener, 1905; D. B. Koenig, 1906-07-08; F. S. Erne, 

1909-10-11-12; P. L. Browns, 1913-14-15. 
Wabash Circuit — (Spikerville.) 

(Spikerville), Ira Dawes, 1908-09-10; (Wabash Cir.), 1911; 

B. G. Smith, 1912; J. M. Lantz, 1913; J. S. Kroft, 1914; 
J. W. Thomas, 1915. 

Wabash, near Lafayette — (See Danville.) 

93 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Wanatah — (See also San Pierre.) 

A. Iwan, 1885; J. C. Schuh, 1886; A. S. Fisher, 1887-88; 
W. Wildermuth, 1889; B. F. Snyder, 1890. Added to Me- 
daryville. D. E. Zechiel, 1895; J. A. Tiedt, 1911-12. In 
1913 united with San Pierre. 

Warsaw — (See Silver Lake.) 

D. J. Pontius, 76; J. M. Dustman, 77-78. 

Warrenton — (See Elberfeld.) 

Waterloo — (A part of the DeKalb Circuit.) 

R. Riegel, E. Einsel, 73; B. F. Dill, 74; A. Geist, 75-6; G. 
Freehafer, 77-8; C. C. Beyrer, 79-80; A. R. Schafer, '81- 
2-3; J. E. Stoops, '84-5; I. B. Fisher, '86; W. H. Bright- 
mire, '87; W. H. Mygrant, '88-9-0; W. S. Tracy, '91; B. F. 
Bockman, '92; P. L. Browns, '93; C. M. Pierce, '94-5; D. E. 
Zechiel, '96-7-8; C. H. Burgener, '99-00; J. M. Smith, '01; 

B. F. Walmer, '02-3; W. H. Mygrant, '04; W. H. Freshley, 
'05-6; D. O. Wise, '07; to be supplied, '08; G. F. Zuber, 
'09; P. L. Browns, '10-1-2; A. Geist, '13-4-5. 

West Point — (Now Bippus.) 

A. S. Fisher, '86; S. H. Baumgartner, 1887-8; W. Wilder- 
muth, '90; P. L. Browns, '99-00; H. Schleucher, '01-02; 
(Bippus) . 

West Salem — (Taken from Mt. Carmel Cir.) 

J. Hoffman, 1868; C. Wessling, 1869-70; Chr. Heim, 1871-2; 

B. Uphaus, 1873-4; C. F. Mathias, 1875. (From 1876 to 
1892 the appointments were made by the South Ind. Conf.) 
G. Winter, 1893; J. Bruckert, 1894-5; H. Cocker. 1896-7; 
E. J. Nitsche, 1898-9; J. Mundorf, 1900-01; I. H. Griese- 
mer, 1902-3-4-5; H. Cocker, 1906-7; J. W. Feller, 1908-09- 
10; G. A. Stierle, 1911-12-13; G. F. Zuber, 1914; Rev. Ker- 
lin, 1915. 

West Salem Circuit — (Lancaster Cir., Enterprise. See also 
West Salem. Supplied by the South Ind. Conf., which 
also separated this field from the West Salem work.) 
(Lancaster), J. Mundorf, '93; P. L. Browns, '94-5; B. E. 
Koenig, '96; J. H. Rilling, '97-8; J. H. Schnitz, '99-00; C. 
McConnehey, '01-2-3; C. P. Maas, '04; F. Hartman, '05; F. 
Reutepoehler, '06-7-8-9-10; R. Wise, '11; G. F. Winter, '12- 
13; (West Salem Cir.), F. W. Launer, '14-15. 
Whitewater Circuit — (A "charter member" of Conference.) 

Peter Goetz, 1852-53; Phil. Bretsch, 1854-55; Chr. Glaus, 
1856; Wm. Bockman and E. L. Kiplinger, 1857; Wm. Bock- 

94 



FIELDS OF LABOR AND THE MINISTERS 

man, 1858; M. Mayer, 1859; Fr. Wiethaup, 1860; PhiL 
Bretsch, 1861; Ed. Evans, 1862. 

Winchester — (See also Greenville Mission.) 

J. H. Stedcke, '80 ; F. Launer, '81-2 ; J. Miller, '83-4 ; J. Mil- 
ler, E. E. Meyers, '85; G. Schmoll, '86-7; D. D. Spangler, 
'88; L. J. Ehrhardt, '89-90; Geo. Speicher, '91-2; C. W. 
Spangler, '93-4; D. B. Koenig, '95; P. L. Browns, '96; M. 
Krueger, '97. 

WOLCOTTVILLE CIRCUIT — (A part of DeKalb Cir.) 

H. E. Overmeyer, '87-8; J. E. Stoops, '89; H. E. Neff, '90-1; 
T. Carrol, '92-3 ; S. Hofferbert, '94-5-6 ; H. H. Reinoehl, '97 ;. 
F. L. Snyder, '98-9 ; W. H. Mygrant, '00-1 ; J. W. Metzner^ 
'02-3-4; S. I. Zechiel, '05-6; E, E. Greiner, '07-8; E. B. 
Jones, '09; D. A. Kaley, '10; J. Rees, '11-2-3-4-5. 

Yellow River Circuit — (See Bremen.) 

Yellow River Mission — (See Bremen Circuit and Nappanee Cir.) 



Special Missionaries, Agents, Collectors, Evangelists 

E. L. Kiplinger, Agent for N. W. C, '64; J. Keiper, '73. 

D. S. Oakes, Miss, to Oregon, '73. 

J. Berger, Miss, to Germany, '73. 

J. Gomer, Miss, to Galveston, Texas, '80 to '87. 

J. M. Hang, Collector for Conf. Debt, '01. 

Aug. Iwan, Miss, to Oregon. 

L. S. Fisher, Miss, to Oregon. 

I. B. Fisher, Miss, to Oregon. 

L. Newman, Evangelist. 



95 



TABLET OF OUR LIVING MINISTERS— 1915 



Birth 



Place of Birth. 







11 


^•, 






o 


o 
















i> 






OJ 


01 






r/j 


r/j 


















o 


c 








> 




s 


■V 


■^ 


o 
t-5 


o 


w 


< 


. 


^_^ 




=«-t 


o 


£ 


c 


o 


s 


c 














































o 


o 


> 


<■ 



ITINERANT ELDERS 



..ifcgerter, A. B 
2,3aunig:artner, S 



Bo\er, C. E 

Breish. J. H.. . 

Browns, P. L. . 

Burgener, C. H 

Buver, Jos. L. 

Carter, J. W. . 

Ehrhardt, L. .J 

Evans, J. II.. 

Erne, F. S 

Feller, .J. W . . . 

Feller, A. W . . 

Finkbeiner, Tin 

Freshley, W. H 

Fisher, L. S . . 

Greiner, E. E. 

Griesemer, I. H 

Geist, Aug. . . . 

Geist, C. E . . . 

Haist, A. B. . . 

Hartnian, C. H 
2-5i'Hartman, F... 

•24|neil, D. R 

25 1 Held, J. H 

26|Harnis, C 

Hirschman, C. 

Kaley, D. A . . . 

Kimmel, G. B. 

Knepper, A. A 

Koenig, B. E . . 

Kroft, A. D. .. 

Laudeman, E. < 

Lantz, J. M. . . 

Loose, R. W.. 

McClure, F. F 

Maas, C. P 

Metzner, J. W. 

Miller, E. E. . 

Hosier, J. O. . 
41|Mimdorf, J. . . . 
42|M,vgrant, W. IT 



■wiiian, L. . 

Xitsche. E. J. 

Praetorins. E. 

Rausch, F . . . 

Rees, J 

Rilling, J. H. 
49|Reutepoehler. 
50|Seheidler, M. 



Schuermeier, B 
Smith, L. E . . 
Snyder, F. L. . 
Snyder, W. E . 
Spangler, D. D 
Spangler, C. W 
Speieher, D. D 
Stedeke, F. J. 
Steele, Ira . . . 
Stierle, A. G. . 
Siinderman, M. 
Tiedt, J. A... 
Traev. W. S.. 
Walmer, F. B. 
Weisshaar, G. 
Wevant, W. I. 
Wise, J. Js . . 
Wise, D. O... 
Wright, C. A. 
Young, .1. E . . 
Zechiel. D. E. 
Zuber. G. F . . 



W. 



May 
Ma"r. 
June 
Feb. 
July 
June 
May 
Sept. 
June 
Dec. 
Feb. 
April 
Jan. 
Feb. 
Oct. 
April 
Sept. 
Oct. 
Nov. 
July 
Aug. 
Dec. 
Feb. 
Feb. 
Feb. 
Aug. 
July 
Mar. 
x\pril 
June 
Julv 
Sept. 
Sept. 
Jan. 
July 
Jan. 
Nov. 
Jan. 
Feb. 
May 
Aug. 
Oct. 
May 
Feb. 
Oct. 
April 
June 
Jan. 
April 
Nov. 
Jan. 
April 
Sept. 
Dec. 
Mar. 
Dec. 
Feb. 
Aug. 
Mav 
Dee. 
Jan. 
Mar. 
Oct. 
Feb. 
May 
Mar. 
Oct. 
! Oct. 
' Sept. 
[Nov. 
Aug. 
I Dec 



1885 
ISOO 
1879 
1867 
1863 
1859 
1860 
1845 
1861 
1859 
1876 
1869 
1872 
1870 
1876 
1856 
1863 
1865 
1848 
1878 
1866 
1S6S 
1881 
1862 
1865 
1857 
1881 
1879 
1874 
1879 
1873 
1872 
1869 
1871 
1879 
1870 
1881 
1869 
1865 
1862 
1861 
1850 
1859 
1852 
1882 
1856 
1850 
1862 
1854 
1865 
1870 
1884 
1866 
1872 
1867 
1869 
1855 
1869 
1875 
1874 
1873 
1864 
1852 
1870 
1883 
1876 
1861 
1873 
1875 
1868 
1860 
1871 



Unrichsville, Oiiio 

Near Vera Cruz, Indiana 

Elkhart, Indiana 

Utica, New York 

Ayerville, Ohio 

Salem Church, Fulton Co., Ind. 

Louisville, Kentucky 

Elizabeth, Illinois 
Muehlheim, Germany 

New York City 

Huntingbui-g, Indiana 

Miami County, Indiana 

Miami County, Indiana 

Crediton, Canada 

Rockport, Indiana 

Evansville, Indiana 

Ottowa, Illinois 

Lancaster, Illinois 

Harlem, New York 

Waterloo, Indiana 

O.xford County, Ontario 

Laporte, Indiana 
Elkhart County, Indiana 

Cass County, Indiana 
Gibson County, Indiana 
West Salem, Illinois 
Indianapolis, Indiana 
Near Culver, Indiana 

Dayton, Ohio 

Near Bippus, Indiana 

Waupecong, Indiana 

Wabash County, In<iiana 

Bremen, Indiana 

Howard County, Indiana 

Wauseon, Ohio 

Wabash, Indiana 

Rockport, Indiana 

Bryant, Indiana 

Marshall County, Indiana 

Van Wert County, Ohio 

Marshall, Illinois 

Shanesville, Ohio 

Logansport, Indiana 

Sachsen, Germany 

Dayton, Ohio 

Wabash, Indiana 

Montgomery County, Ohio 

West Bend, Wisconsin 

Huntingburg, Indiana 

Wayne County, Indiana 

Haubstadt, Iiuliana 

Defiance, Ohio 

Whitley County, Indiana 

Wayne County, Indiana 

Near Decatur, Indiana 

Near Decatur, Indiana 

Weinsburg, Ohio 

Celina, Ohio 

St. Joseph County, Indiana 

Germany 

Huntingburg, Indiana 

Germany 
Geauga County, Ohio 
Bangor, Michigan 
Wuerttemberg, Germany 
Weyant, Pennsylvania 
Euuuettsville, Indiana 
Ennuettsville, Indiana 

Winnipeg, Canada 

Emniettsville, Indiana 

Culver. Indiana 

Brvan, Ohio 



1909 


Indiana 


1911 


1913 


6 




1887 


Indiana 


1889 


1891 


28 




1907 


Indiana 


19(1!) 


I'.M 1 


i; 




1890 


New York 


is;ii; 


Is'lS 


■Jn 




1893 


New York 


189.-) 


IMI7 


■J- 




1896 


New York 


1902 


1904 


16 




1895 


New York 


1897 


1899 


20 




1876 


F. M. 


1876 


1878 


36 


3 


1888 


F. M. 


1893 


1895 


27 




1881 


F. M. 


1888 


1892 


27 


'7 


1899 


F. M. 


1902 


1904 


16 




1895 


F. M. 


1898 


1902 


20 




1902 


W. M. 


1909 


1913 


7 


2 


1893 


Illinois 


1895 


1897 


10 




1900 


Indiana 


1902 


1904 


15 




1883 


Indiana 


1885 


1887 


29 


'3 


1900 


Indiana 


1902 


1905 


10 


5 


1889 


So. Indiana 


1893 


1895 


26 




1872 


Indiana 


1874 


1876 


35 


"s 


1904 


Indiana 


1908 


1911 


8 




1894 


Canada 


1897 


1899 


19 




1887 


Kansas 


1890 


1892 


27 


i 


1899 


Mennonite 


1903 


1905 


11 


1 


1904 


Indiana 


1907 


1911 


11 




1889 


M. E. 


1903 


1912 


5 




1895 


Indiana 


1897 


1900 


17 


5 


1906 


Indiana 


1911 


1913 


5 




1903 


Indiana 


1906 


1909 


12 




1897 


Indiana 


1901 


1903 


14 




1905 


Indiana 


1907 


1909 


10 




1896 


Indiana 


1901 


1903 


19 




1908 


Indiana 


1910 


1913 


6 


"i 


1900 


Indiana 


1903 


1908 


13 




1903 


Indiana 


1905 


1908 


11 


i 


1909 


Illinois 


1913 


1915 


4 




1899 


Indiana 


1903 


1905 


13 


'3 


1902 


Indiana 


1905 


1908 


13 




1891 


Indiana 


1893 


1895 


24 




1905 


Indiana 


1907 


1909 


10 




1895 


Indiana 


1899 


1901 


18 


2 


1884 


So. Indiana 


1887 


1889 


31 




1883 


Indiana 


1888 


1890 


32 




1893 


Indiana 


1895 


1902 


22 




1881 


Indiana 


1884 


1886 


34 




1904 


Indiana 


1908 


1910 


8 




1884 


Indiana 


1886 


1889 


27 


'4 


1888 


Indiana 


1890 


1892 


27 




1897 


Indiana 


1898 


1901 


IS 




1893 


Indiana 


1004 


1909 


15 


6 


1887 


Indiana 


1889 


1891 


27 


1 


1890 


So. Indiana 


1894 


1896 


25 




1906 


Indiana 


1908 


1911 


8 


i 


1888 


Indiana 


1890 


1898 


25 


1 


1894 


Indiana 


1896 


1898 


18 


3 


1887 


Indiana 


1890 


1892 


25 


3 


1892 


Indiana 


1894 


1896 


14 


9 


1885 


Indiana 


1887 


1SS9 


30 




1894 


Indiana 


1900 


1911 


10 


ii 


1904 


Indiana 


1910 


1914 


7 


4 


1899 


Indiana 


1907 


1910 


9 




1896 


Indiana 


1901 


1903 


15 




1890 


Indiana 


1892 


1894 


25 




1888 


Indiana 


1894 


1907 


26 


i 


1901 


Indiana 


1903 


1905 


13 


1 


1908 


M. E. 


1911 


1913 


6 


1 


1902 


Pittsburg 


1904 


1906 


13 




1893 


Indiana 


1896 


1901 


20 


2 


1901 


Indiana 


1907 


1909 


9 


5 


1908 


Indiana 


1910 


1912 


7 




1900 


M. E. 


1902 


1906 






1S95 


M. E. 


1897 


1899 


20 




1 896 


M. E. 


1908 


1910 


8 


ii 



96 



TABLET OF OUR LIVING MINISTERS— 1915 



Name. 



Birth 



Place of Birth. 

























> 






ii" 






r/) 


c 






o 






a 


E 


> 








C 


i^ 






— 


<« 








c 


c 
















•o 












o 


O 


;*• 



INTINERANT DEACONS 



1 


Baunigartner, E. H. 


Aug. 


12, 


1808 


Linn Grove, Inilianu 


1910 


Iniliana 


1912 . . 


.. 5|.. 





Haney. C. L 


Nov. 


1, 


1890 


Milford, Indiana 


1911 


Indiana 


1915 . . 


.. 3 




a 


Herman, M. 0. . . . 


Nov. 


21, 


1883 


Elkhart, Indiana 


1910 


huliaiia 


1915 .. 


.. 2 




4 


Kistler, J. M 


Jan. 


.SO, 


1888 


Koval Center, Indiana 


1912 


Indiana 


1914 . . 


.. 3 




5 


Lozier, Geo. S 


Mar. 


28, 


1884 


Bremen, Indiana 


1911 


Indiana 


1914 .. 


.. 2 




r. 


Platz. N. F 


June 


12, 


1857 


(Jilead, Miami Co., Indiana 


1895 


Indiana 


1909 . . 


. . 9 


11 


7 


Pulhnan, Geo 


Dec. 


n. 


1887 


Ui'bana, Indiana 


1910 


Indiana 


1914 . . 


.. 2 




S 


Koederer, J. G . . . . 


Julv 


19, 


1890 


AVabash, Indiana 


1911 


Indiana 


1915 .. 


.. 1 




9 


Sehlemmer, C. W . . 


April 


26, 


1878 


Wabash, Indiana 


1906 


U. B. 


1912 . . 


.. 5 


3 


10 Smith. B. G 


Mav 


;^, 


1883 


Denver, Colorado 


1912 


Indiana 


1912 . . 


.. G 




11 Wacknitz. F. C 


Aug. 


22, 


1889 


Medarvville, Indiana 


1913 


Indiana 


1914 . . 


.. 2 




12 Winter, G. F 


April 


10, 


1856 


Oriole, Indiana 


1889 


So. Indiana 


1894 . . 


. . 26 





PROBATIONERS IN ACTIVE SERVICE 



Arndt, Jacob . . . 
De Witt, Allen. .. 
Flurkey, Wm. H. 

Halev, E. D 

Haney, Phil. E. . . 
Handschu, Ralph. 
Lanner, Floyd W . 
Lozier, Orvill 0. . 
J. W. Thomas . . . 



Mar. 28, 1888 
Aug. IS, 1891 



Oct. 18, 1868 

Julv 18, 1884 

June 21, 1886 

April 10, 1882 

April 5, 1891 

Oct. 31, 1874 



Near San Pierre, Indiana 
Tipton County, Indiana 



Burbank, Ohio 

Marshall County, Indiana 

Peoria, Illinois 

Cromwell, Indiana 

Bremen, Indiana 

Hamilton County, Indiana 



1915 
1915 



1912 
1914 
1915 
1914 
1914 
1915 



Indiana 
Indiana 



Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 



SUPERANNUATES 



Buehler, 

Bockman, 

Kaufman, 

Krueger, 

Luehring, 

Schleueher 



Phil. . 

J. H. 

J 

M 

W. L 
H. . 



Stoop, Jos. E . 
Weisshaar. H . 



May 
Dec. 
Aug. 
Mar. 
Feb. 
Mar. 
Dec. 
Nov. 



4, 1855 

4, 1847 

13, 1834 

10, 1834 

22, 1850 
15, 1848 

23, 1851 
27, 1848 



Seneca Coimty, Ohio 

Huntingburg, Indiana 

Wuerttemberg, Germany 

Baden, Germany 

Haubstadt, Indiana 

Germany 

Near Decatur, Indiana 

Wuerttemberg, Germany 



1888 
1871 
1863 
1856 
1877 
1871 
1883 
1873 



Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
So. Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Ger. C. 



1891 
1873 
1865 
1858 
1880 
1873 
1885 
1875 



1893 

1877 
1867 
1860 
1882 
1875 
1887 
1877 



39113 

37122 
331 " 

2i ii 

20 22 



SUPERNUMER.\RIES 



Dustman, J. M. 
Fisher, A. S... 
Hansing, C. F. 
Hoffman, John 

Koch, Ger 

Pierce, C. M. . . 
Reinoehl, H. H. 
|Roederer, Geo. 
Hogers, J. M. .. 
Schnitz, J. H.. 
Trover, A. J . . . 
Trover, E. R. .. 
Wildermuth, W. 



April 9, 

Jan. 2, 

April 16, 

Sept. 20, 

April 12, 

Aug. 15, 

Jan. 12, 

Oct. 23, 

Sept. 11, 

Aug. 27, 

June 20, 

Oct. 7, 



1852 
1855 
1849 
1837 
1842 
1869 
1845 
1850 
1856 
1859 
1831 
1843 
1843 



Huntington County, Indiana 

Tuscarawas County, Ohio 

Indiaiiaindis. Indiana 

Hnhiu's County, Ohio 

Hiuitingl>urg, Indiana 

Hagerslown, Indiana 

Wayne County, Ohio 

Baden, Germany 

Fulton County, Indiana 

Huntington County, Indiana 

Holmes County, Indiana 

Holmes County, Indiana 

Fairfield County, Ohio 



1874 
1887 
1872 
1858 
1883 
1887 
1890 
1874 
1891 
1884 
1868 
1868 
1869 



Iniliana 
Indiana 
HliiKiis 
Indiana 
So. Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
li'diana 



1878 
1888 
1873 
l.sOil 
1«S9 
1894 
1892 
1877 
1893 
1887 
1869 
1872 
1872 



1880 
1890 
1875 

1S62 

is96 
1894 
1879 
1895 
1889 
1876 
1874 
1881 



8 21 

181 7 

32] 9 

4120 

'2 45 



LOCAL ELDERS 



Cramer, S. C. 
Jones, E. B. . 
Mills, W. S. 



Dec. 8, 1872 Salem, Decatur Co., Indiana 
ilav 24, 1869| Union City, Indiana 



1896 
1893 



Indiana 
Indiana 



1899119011.. 
191l|l913|.. 
1895|1899|14 



LOCAL DEACONS 



Buyer, J. L.. Jr. . . 

Dauner, F 

Garl, R. E 

Kohhneier, C 

Kroft, J. S 

Scheidler, .\. \' . . . 
Speicher, P. S . . . . 
Steininger, H. II . . 
Wiesjahn, .\. F. . . . 
Zinimer, Geo 



Feb. 27, 18S9 Ixiuisville, Kentucky 

April 11, 1841 Henschelheim, Bavaria 



Dec. 25, 1834 

Feb. 20, 1867 

June 5, 1840 

1852 

1863 



Dec. 17, 1825 



Venobeck, Germany 

Kosciusko County, Indiana 

Wayne County, Indiana 

Holmes County, Ohio 

Snvder County, Pennsylvania 



.Vlsace. France 



19111 

1877]So 

1897 

1857 

1906 

1868 

1892 

1893 

1896 

1865 



Indiana 

Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 



1913 
1887 
1911 
1859 
19U 
1874 
1905 
1895 
1891 
1865 



97 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Place of Birth. 



c 




o 
o 


u 


a3 


■u 






"" 




TJ 


-c 






c 


c 






a 


CS 


■o 


■a 




Lj 


O 


O 



LOCAL PROBATIONERS. 



lIBieiiie, E. C 
2lBucks, J. W 
3 Carey, W. H 



Dawes, I. C 

Eberhart, H. E 

Mayer, B. A 

Mever, H. L 

Gillnian, U. G 

Kininiel, W. R . . . . 

Reihle, W 

Schlotterbach, C... 
Sehmalzried. E. W. 

Snvder. Earl F Mar. 

Suit, D. D 

Miller. .7 



June 28, 1807 
Feb. 16, 1845 



Dec. 1, 1891 
Oct. 6, 1887 
Aug. 30, 1890 



Wells County, Indiana 
Lebanon County, Pennsylvania 



Wabasn County, Indiana 

Indianapolis, Indiana 

Mt. Carmel, Illinois 

Huntingburg, Indiana 

Mishawaka, Indiana 

Dayton, Ohio 



Preble County, Ohio 
La Gro, Indiana 
Decatur, liidiann 



l!Ml() 
1878 
IMIt 
1908 
1914 
1914 
1914 
1907 
1914 
1894 
1910 
1910 
1910 
1896 



M. E. 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 

Indiana 



1137 
2|.. 



98 



EXPERIENCES OF OUR PIONEER PREACHERS' WIVES 



Experiences of our Pioneer Preachers' Wives 

The heroism and endurance of the wives of the pioneer 
preachers of the Indiana Conference, in the face of untold hard- 
ship, privation and loneliness, demands our recognition and ap- 
preciation. Gladly do we lay at their feet these few well-earned 
flowers. A more noble band of patient sufferers can scarcely be 
found the world over, and in no other calling of life can their 
likeness be seen. Modern affluence, with all its comfort and ease, 
can hardly form any adequate conception of the trials and heart- 
aches which it was their lot to endure. 

With husbands far away on long and dangerous itineraries, 
they were left behind to care for their families as best they 
might. Mother had to take the place of the father as well as that 
of her own, and upon her rested the entire care of the children. 
She was very often necessitated to go out and earn their food 
and clothing; many times facing empty flour bin, bare cup- 
board, depleted pocket-book, while her hungry brood was cling- 
ing about her, and crying for food. For months and months 
such a thing as meat and coftee were not to be found in the par- 
sonage. 

When sickness came, bringing its burning fevers and great 
sufferings, there were no doctors at hand, and those that could 
occasionally be gotten were nothing more than mere "experi- 
menters." It rested upon mother to be physician, nurse, house- 
keeper and all. No wonder then that they often collapsed be- 
neath the load. The lonely night-vigils with her sick children 
were made hideous and gruesome by the howling of hungry 
wolves, the profanity and wild yellings of drunkards and the 
prevalence of thieves lurking in the shadows without. What 
agonies were endured by these faithful souls, no mortal tongue 
can tell. 

When father did finally return from his long itinerary, his 
younger children did not know him any more, and treated him 
as a stranger and intruder. Soon he had to go onto his itinerary 
again. No matter what the needs of his home might be, he must 
push on, for he is a winner of souls, and the King's business dare 
not be delayed. We need not even mention that many of our 
pioneer preachers' wives died of sheer homesickness. 

The houses in which they were compelled to live were usually 
isolated, located ofi" in the woods. These were very small — a 

99 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

room or two — and a garret above. They were so poorly con- 
structed that the elements could beat their way right in, and the 
biting cold of winter held high carnival. The bit of furniture 
that was to be had was crude and uncomfortable. A few rough 
chairs, a plain table, old-fashioned rope beds with straw ticks 
completed the number of their belongings. Such a thing as a 
rocking-chair, or a lounge or a musical instrument, was unheard 
of in a preacher's home of these pioneer days. Books and other 
reading matter to cheer and instruct were very scarce, and noth- 
ing was to be had to help spend the long wintry evenings with 
profit. Child literature was even more rare and as inappropriate 
as rare. The daily life, if it had not been so constantly a fight 
for existence, would have been exceedingly monotonous and a 
humdrum aff'air. 

Most of the school-houses and churches were located far from 
their homes, and none of them had any conveyance to bring them 
there. Yet the preacher's family was supposed to be an example 
to the entire community in godliness, and punctual in attendance 
upon all the meetings of the church. The condition of those early 
days baffles all description. One needs but consult the few re- 
maining pioneer ministers' wives and children, who still have these 
old-time experiences loom up before them, often to haunt them 
as the nightmare, to get any adequate description. Is it then 
to be wondered at that not many of their sons and daughters 
have entered the calling that cost their parents so much hardship? 
May the memory of these saints, these heroines, be held in high- 
est regard among us, and may the few remaining pioneers re- 
ceive every attention and kindness at our hands ! 



100 



TABLET OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS— 1915 



c-i c: o 00 00 ■ t^ c-i lO ci -J' 

cc «:> in t^ o • lo 00 i- i^ o 

•jspia pauicpjo U3i[ YV r* "^ <» <» <» •oo«xoocc 



•uooBaa pauiupjQ ueij \v 



^t^t^fOZC lO O CC 1^ CM -00 

c/: w o 1^ :c lO 00 i^ i^ uo • «o 

xxxccx'^cecoooccx -oo 



*</:> ci^ ^ • 00 X w 



• -f o • :c • X CO ^ 'CO 

•XCl '00 • X 00 X -x 



•XX • X ■ X X X .X 



aoiAjag ui sjBa^\ iBjox 



•saouajajuoQ Jamo 
UI aoTAjag UI sji:a\ 



• CC M CO • (M tH (M CO • C<1 • :c -^ * i-( o 



•JUOO HUlUpUI UI 

aotAjag lEooq ut saBa\ 



•JUOO Bucipm UI 
aoiAjag aApoy ui sai!a,\ 



'■-HX ■C-l'M-^rJKNrHtM-^CO .rH 






•aouajajuoo i[Oiiia\ Ag 






« rt cs s X 
C C Cl, C •- 
ca c3 a >; 



.is 02 



'S = S 5 .2 = .2 c c S H g,-' H 



'i lO O — ot IM 



•pasuaotq uaq^vv 



X XXXXXXXXc 



■a g C 2 73 _j 

■3 ^ ^' 






^" = -' « o g c _^- _ ^ I _^ 5 ^^,_g ^ ^_ = -:= c „." I = ;2 i i'l : i o ij I 









• = ^. 




t^ CO O Ol ^ ^ 

ooxoC5c;c:c; _ _______ 

xc:xc;xxxxc:c;'XXOc6oxxo6c;c:6Dxxxr;cixooc;x5DXxxC;xc; 



■M c-i -M CO ^ c; "C : 



T^tMr^i—irHtMiHrHcqC^ 



-• J-' 'rf '£. cJ J £f'^ i-^ 






c c 
■3 -r 






-2 --^ S' 

c5 7S 



. C C ~ :S C-O 
— = = 0-- 3 C 
C 2 OQ 5 O " 



•O C?.2 .- 

, ^, _- ^ S _ - S 

c S o ." -^ a o O 
CpsCa^-S-g_^ 



„. „_cst^CCa£r; 



■•r o i? 

: t o" 3 

, N O ,^ C 



>-« o (M r 

O '^ .H ' 

X X X c 



' CO ^ CO CO 1 



!_o c £ CJ ^ 



. IM m d CO - 



: = i- — rf— = 






iS=i3 .-' — ■--5-' —.H"^^^— .- 









uaooc; = rr = = 



101 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



aapia pauicpjQ uaqwo^oocc 



uooeaa pduicpao uaq.vV gSS 



• X Cl C5 

• tC O ■-'5 

■ ce cc X 



OOaOaD •0000X00 -x -xxx 



O c: -* 
1- lO o 
X X 31 



C: c: a • -* 
(~ ^ to • I~ 

XXX • X 



CO lO -f rH CI 

t- ■o' ;o o t~ 

X X X C! X 



99lAJ3g Ul SJBaA [BJOX 



X M O: to >>) O in X •* M -» 5-1 O CO o 



•seouajajuoj aailJO 
m aoiAjag ui sjB3_\ 



•juoo BUBtpUI Ul 
aDiAjas iBooq ui sjca\ 



■^ * -*" 1^ • CO C'l • C-l CO -co 



CI pH • • C] i-H O (M CO CI rH • • CO CD r-t 



•JUOQ BUBtpUI Ul 

aoiAjag aAijov uS s.iBa\ 



X O X CO • o 



■ eo (N <N O <N «os -x 

■ CJ <N ■* i-H . r-l 



•aouajajuoo ip!iiA\ Ay 



•pasuaoiq uoqw 



.2 ^ 

^.2 -a 



.2 • c .2 « o 5-5 "-S ^ a c =3 ° 
g • §0:5 § .^'^"5.2 -SS ^'^^S 



5'.s^T3~ i^',s ca^Ta : c«.2jnw5 
-£ = 'S j.' 3 "^ -e ■? e -"^ c '° T" " 



CCCCCCCCsCCC" 



s -p- rt cc: 



cjcSrtcirtcicSc^mrtcdrt t^ ctfJc3rfc3c^e3c^rtcflCcscSc5cS rtc3cac3 

cccccccc-sC!=Co°MCn'caccccccS;i,ccCoCccso 

C5:aca«c4c«:^«xcacdc«-^ajcs^cjrtrtcda!cdc3c3^ — — ^ ._* — _i_.. 
r-r-rir-r-nr-^Sr-r-r^'-^ggC^CCI-CCCCCfe.caCCC 



•«► 



c c c c' 









5— t f ~ 



;zSS 




I - r:' CO O -M 1— ( -t* -r : 
r. c;- 00 CO X Ci CO c. 



I— l-rt*0 Or- tlOi— <"+ 

j: 'Oi 00 ■ O O Ci i-H O 
"jGOOqO ClClODCsC: 






1^ -: '^ X — -^ C '-r < — < X X < O S 7; -^ O 



;r o Ci.^ . t^ Ci.^Qj j;^ Cu 












£ .2 

cs C S c 

-■-I s oj 5 _ 

g 5 o a o t: 



C ^ a; 



C C 

" Tl 7: r - - 

0; OJ 



£P s 2 £• c 



g g P N N r; 






3 >. 

61 
.55 



! o 
o| 

o 
2 S S 



;3 ai-ssa: s-^^o 2 

3 K O i< O O Q J * K fc. 



rHOt^ClCOOl^ .r^^rHOSi— ICl'I^OiCOCOt-t^'Hi— ICOlOCO'lHCOCOCOmcO'^I^COCOCOl^ 
(M^^.^CICO'l^CO (MOCOCOrH^i— ICCCOTHCOCOCOMrHl-COrHOCOfMCOrHCOt^COCCi— I 

xxxxooxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 



: n -»;<-»; :g X ► 



< M" I-H CC CO CO C -t CI iH 1- u*^ O 10 CO I^ rH Ci 







CaXt,.i7Q.aSooajaj.So33'-~';'— 'r'1'aj^a^o.^.S'^Ca 



102 



lo 



cj 






TABLET OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS— 1915 



•japia pauiBpjo uaqAV '^ '=000 • •« 


1863 

1858 
1839 
1876 
1868 
1865 


1853 
1875 

1856 

1859 
1871 
1861 
1852 

1859 
1859 
1851 






•uooBaa pauiBpjQ uaq^v 


1879 

1885 

i850 
1849 


1861 
1854 
1836 
1874 
1865 
1863 


1851 
1873 

1854 

1855 

1857 
1868 
1859 
1850 

1856 
1857 
1849 






■aoiAjag ui sjBaji^ IBlox 


•i y>^i^' u4 Tj. 


=!«O-fOC<:Q0«0O(NiMKWI-XOO00rHMe-lClC:'M-Oc0:0CC 




•saouajajLbo J^mO 
ui aoiAjas UI sjBa_\ 


- us '• '-to 


■00 • • '-Mn^ ■ • • •c:-fccw ••-t'* . "O •GOo<M • 




■}U00 BUBipUI UI 

aoiAjag iBOOT ' ui sJBa^\ 


-»• -M .0 • OMN 


rHrHO •0?:-t .10 • .C-l -X .^? '-f -l.^C-l • .C>l^cO-i«00 
©^-trH'CCr^ . ..r-'' .rH.'M.'Mi— l..'M COr-*CC 




•JUOO BUBipUI Ul 

aoiAjas aAipv "! sJBa_\ 


00 -f. IM t- !M • n 


: :;S : : : 

00 "M C. -* .-- -ri -t t C-J c-l rH <M • -t C; t^ -t 1^ -t. • c-1 CO — "^ • • . 




•aauaaajuoo qoiq.u A'g 


Indiana 

Ohio 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
East Pa. 

Ohio 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Illinois 
Western 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Illinois 

Ohio 
Michigan 
Indiana 
Indiana 
U. B. 
Indiana 
East Pa. 
Illinois 

Ohio 
Illinois 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Illinois 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Indiana 
Illinois 

Ohio 
Illinois 
Indiana 


4J 


•pasuaoiq uaqw 


X X X X ~ X X • X x" X X X X 'y 


X X X ~ X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 







"3. 

P3 


Marshall, Illinois. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
Winnamac, Ind. 
Plakeslee, Ohio. 
Mhikeslee, Ohio. 
Lightsville, Ohio. 
Smiths. Elk. 
Klkhart Co., Ind. 
South Bend, Ind. 
South Bend, Ind. 
K.Germantown, Ind. 
Klkhart Co., Ind. 
Hicksville, Ohio. 
Dayton, Ohio. 


Lafavette, Ind. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
Urliaua. Indiana. 
Mishawaka. Ind. 
South Bend, Ind. 
Fulton Co.. Ind. 
Cambria, Pa. 
Cicero. Indiana. 
Indianapolis. Ind. 
Hart. Michigan . 
Klkhart. Indiana. 
Michigan. 
Emmetsyille. Ind. 
Decatur, Indiana. 
Kendallyille, Ind. 
Evansville, Ind. 
Henrietta, Texas. 
Huntingburg, Ind. 
Fulton Co., Ind. 
Ligonier. Indiana. 
Bi^emen. Indiana. 


z 


Time and Place of Death. 


Olney, Illinois. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
Emporia, Kansas. 
Kewana, Indiana. 
Scott, Ohio. 
Lightsyille, Ohio. 
Middleport, Ind. 
Elkhart Co.. Ind. 
South Bend, Ind. 
South Bend, Ind. 
E.Germantown, Ind. 
Decatur, Indiana. 
Hicksville, Ohio. 
Dayton, Ohio. 


Lafayette, Indiana. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
Urbana, Indiana. 
Mishawaka, Ind. 
Dayton, Ohio. 
E.Germantown, Ind. 
Van Wert, Ohio. 
Marion Co., Ind. 
Mishawaka. Ind. 
Hart, Michigan. 
Elkhart, Indiana. 
Michigan. 
Emmetsyille. Ind. 
Decatur, Ind. 
Kendallyille, Ind. 
Evansville, Ind. 
Henrietta, Texas. 
Huntingburg, Ind. 
Fulton Co., Ind. 
Ligonier, Indiana, 
(iarrett, Indiana. 




■3 


"o 

CJ 


1913 
1881 
1894 
1897 
1907 
1888 
1890 
1884 
1898 
1910 
1869 
1885 
1911 
1908 


'. 00 


1911 
1893 
1908 
1905 
1889 
1874 
1856 
1902 
1895 
1905 
1898 
1901 
1909 
1870 
1894 
1909 
1897 
1897 
1864 
1891 


:j 


Dee. 17 
.lulv 5 
.lau. 27 
.Imie 10 
Aug. 22 
.Ian. 18 
Mav 14 
.lime 10 
•Ian. 22 
Mar. 25 
Dec. 20 
Aiiril 15 
.lime 26 


Aug. 6 
Nov. 3 

.lulv 25 
.lime 2 
.lulv 28 
Sell't. 6 
Mar. 22 
.lime 27 
.lulv 3 
Oct. 16 
Oct. IS 

Mar. 10 
Mav 6 
Aug. 23 
Feb. 26 
Sept. 12 

Aug. 21 


c = 


Date and Place of Birth. 


Sept. 25, 1851, Chicago, Illinois. 

1810, Germany, 
.lime 11, 1845, Austria. 
Nov. 17, 1844, Seneca County. Ohio. 
Mar. 3. 1880. Williams County. Oliio. 
.lulv (i. 1808, Pennsylvania. 
Ajiril 22, 1818, Mifflin County. Pa. 
Oct. 30, 1801, Lancaster County, Pa. 
Dee. 31. 1819, Germany. 
Dec. 19. 1827, Germany. 
Sipt. 17, 1797, Forest, Virginia. 
Del. 4, 1831, Lanca.ster Count\ . Pa. 
A|iril 5, 1824, Lebanon, Pa. 
Dee. 7, 1830, (Jermany. 


: a 


.lulv 29, 1842, Germany. 

Dec. 3, 1870, Urbana, Indiana. 

April 12, 1882, North Dakota. 

April 27, 1821, York County, Pa. 

Die. 30, 1864, Snyder County, Pa. 

S( [it. 21, 1797, Pennsylvania. 

Mar. 3, 1828, North Warsaw, Ind. 

.Ian. 13, 1824, (Jermanv. 

.lime 12, 1809, (iermanv. 

.Iiine 18, 1838, Hohnes County, Ohio. 

.\pr. 4, 1835, Germany. 

.\ug. 4, 1824, Prussia, Germany. 

Feb. 13. 1860, Allen County, Indiana. 

Oct. 24, 1844, Sandusky County, O. 

.Mar. 1. 1813, Hanover, Germany. 

.lulv 23, 1827, Kutenhausen, Germany. 

Dee. 15, 1813, Germany. 

Dee. .., 1820, Fairfield County, 0. 


J 

< 

.=0 


5 -g 
"C c 


Name. 










■>-n 




























Platz, N. .1. .. 

Preehtel, llenrv 
Ifainey, Kob. . 
Uainev, S. D. 
liiegei, .lohn . 
Piegel. Ueub. . 
Uohrer, .los. . . 
Koth, Peter . . 
"Huh. Bern. ... 
Sdiafer. A. H. 
Schafer. A. K. 
Schamo, ('has. 
Sehmoll. (!co. 




Schweit-/.er, F. 

Speieher, (!eo. 

Spencer, Irvin 
♦Steffey, M. W. 

Steininger. (!. . 

Stoll. .lohn . . . 

Stricklcr. H. . 

Tramer. Coiir. 

Trnmeter, .1. . 

Troyer. .1. K. . 

Ude, Christian 
*Uphaus, Uern. 

\'an Camp. .\. 

Wal.s. (;. W. . 

Wesselcr. Wm. 

Wessling. Chr. 
'Wicthaiqi, Fr. 

Wilderimith. S. 

\V,,lf l,,l.i, 1.' 




— S 



103 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Chronological List of the Deceased Ministers 

1856— Henry Strickler. 

1862 — Jacob Krumeisen. 

1863 — David Garl, Adolph Dassel, Philip Schwartz. 

1864— John F. Wolf, Henry Maier. 

1869— A. B. Schafer. 

1870— Geo. W. Wales, J. M. Condo. 

1871— Levi Grim. 

1873— George A. Hertel. 

1874— John Stoll. 

1875— Christian Glaus. 

1878 — Adam Hartzler, John Kiplinger. 

1879— John Karstetter. 

1880— E. E. Condo, H. L. Fisher. 

1881 — Charles R. Koch, Philip Porr, Gerhardt Franzen, 

1882— Peter Goetz, Samuel K. Miesse. 

1883 — S. Heiss, Samuel Miesse, Samuel Dickover. 

1884 — Joseph Rohrer, Fred Hoffman. 

1885 — Adam R. Schafer, Mathias Klaiber. 

1886 — Michael Alspach, George Kloepfer, Jacob Mode. 

1888— John Riegel, Melchior Mayer. 

1889 — Peter Burgener, George B. Holdeman, John Caufman, G. 
Steininger. 

1890 — Reuben Riegel, Wm. Bockman. 

1891 — John M. Gomer, Michael Zimmer, Jacob Miller, John Ber- 
ger. 

1892— Harry W. Fisher. 

1893 — Samuel B, Kring, George E. Speicher. 

1894 — Henry Prechtel, Samuel E, Beverly, Philemon Miller, Tim- 
othy Carroll, Ernest Bohlander, Wm. Wesseler. 

1895 — H. E. Overmeyer, Carl F. W. Hansing, Samuel Kiplinger, 
Jacob Trometer. 

1896— John M. Kronmiller. 

1897 — Fred Wiethaup, Wm. Ackerman, Michael Koehl. Robert 
Rainey, Joseph Fisher, August Iwan, Solomon Wilder- 
muth. - 

104 



CHRONOLOGICAL LIST OF THE DECEASED MINISTERS 

1898— Peter Roth, Christian Ude. 

1901 — Edward J. Oliver, Fred Launer, Bernard Uphaus, 

1902— Carl Kalwitz, Henry E. Meyers, Conrad Tramer, C. C. 

Baumgartner. 
1903— S. S. Albert. 

1904— George G. Platz, M. F. Finkbeiner, John M. Haug. 
1905— George Frederick, M. W. Steffey, Jacob K. Troyer. 
1906— David S. Oakes. '? 

1907 — Christian Heim, Sch. D. Rainey, Charles McConnehey. 
1908 — Irvin Spencer, George Schmoll. 
1909 — Jacob Keiper, Jacob Huntsinger, Wm. Koenig, Ans. Van 

Camp, Chr, Wessling. 
1910 — Bernard Ruh, George Freehafer, John Bruckert. 
1911 — Edwin C. Ewald, Charles Schamo, Frederick G. Schweitzer, 

Wesley Pinkerton. 
1913— Wm. G. Braeckly, Nimrod J. Platz. 
1914— Eli T. Hochstettler, Joseph A. Maier. 
1915 — Henry Gocker. 
Date Not Known — A. Nicolai, Fr. Schuerman. 



105 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



In Memory of Our Dead 

Rest, weary feet, that slow and halting trod 

Life's short, rough path ; rest till that wondrous day, 

When ye upon the eternal hills of God 

Shall run, with strong, firm step, your joyful way. 

Fold patient hands upon the quiet breast, 
Faithful ye toiled an humble place to fill ; 

Hereafter called to do His high behest. 

Ye shall work out your Maker's glorious will. 

Close dreamy eyes, out from whose depths there shone. 

Longings in this poor life unsatisfied : 
We shall behold the King upon His throne, 

And life, and joy, and beauty multiplied. 

Peace, throbbing heart, nor pain, nor care, nor grief. 
Hopeless desires, nor powerless zeal, shall more 

Trouble thy pulses, pain shall find relief. 

And hope fulfilment on that deathless shore. 

But where soft shadows lie and grasses wave. 
While summer birds sing around thy lower bed ; 

Sleep when the snow falls gently on thy grave. 
And winter winds sigh hoarsely over thy head. 

Blessed the dead who, dying in the Lord, 

Rest from their labors. That sweet rest be thine ! 

Rest in the promise of His gracious Word ; 
Rest in the likeness of the life divine. 

— Evangelical Messenger. 



106 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



Brief Sketches of the Lives of the Deceased 
Members of the Conference 

The following are the charter members of the Conference: S. Dick- 
over, Chr. Glaus, A. Nicolai, F. Wiethaup, B. Uphaus, J. Fisher, P. Bur- 
gener, P. Goetz, F. Schuermau, J. Keiper, M. W. Steffey, G. Frauzeii, 
B. Euh. 

WM. ACKERMAN (1851-1897) 

Brother Ackeiman was born of Evangelical parentage, March 
21, 1851, near Kenclallville, Indiana. His father was a very use- 
ful member, and occupied many important positions in our church. 
William, his son, had set out to become a Doctor of Medicine, but 
having been defrauded of money to the amount of $300 by the 
physician that was instructing him, he was compelled to abandon 
this pursuit. In 1875 he was converted to God and, uniting with 
the Evangelical Association at Kendallville, became a devoted 
worker for the Lord. Ere long the call of God was heard, urging 
him to greater service, and in September, 1876, he received license 
from the Indiana Conference as preacher on probation. 

He was sent with D. S. Oakes to the Mishawaka Circuit, and 
it was his good fortune to find a home with a family named Wahl- 
smith. Mrs. Wahlsmith had been a school-teacher, and became a 
great blessing to him, since he had only a very limited education. 
She carefully instructed him in grammar, and, as he often humor- 
ously said, "caused him to read through the dictionary seven dif- 
ferent times, in order to enrich his language and gain a larger 
vocabulary." At the close of this year he located for two years, 
and upon re-entering the work in '79, was sent to St. Mary and 
Van Wert Circuit, with B. F. Dill as colleague. In 1880 he served 
Defiance Circuit, and Royal Center in 1881. He was quite suc- 
cessful on these fields in winning souls to Christ. 

In the spring of '82 the Board of Missions appointed him as 
missionary to Oregon, and after a brief service in this capacity 
he had to cease work on account of his health. The climate affected 
his speech adversely. He then engaged in selling Bibles and books 
as agent for the American Bible Society, traveling in Oregon, 
Washington and California. After a three years' absence he re- 
turned to South Bend, Ind., where he engaged in the coal business. 
Later on he ventured in the same business with a brother in Ten- 
nessee, but meeting with financial failure, returned to Indiana. 

107 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Feeling impressed to re-enter the ministry, he applied in 1891 
and was appointed to Huntington Mission. In 1892 he was assigned 
to Pajme Mission. Previous to the reading of the appointments 
at this session, he felt extra good, and made his horse "Frank" an 
honorary member of the Missionary Society by paying the re- 
quired sum for such membership. He surely did appreciate his 
faithful horse ! When the appointments were read, however, he 
was greatly disappointed in not being returned to Huntington. 
Since Payne did not appeal very much to him (nor to anybody 
else) he refused to go. The Bishop said quietly to him, "Then 
there will be a flock without a shepherd, and you will be responsible 
for that flock before God." He repented of his action and went to 
the field, which proved to be a great blessing to him. During the 
year the health of J. E. Smith, pastor of Van Wert, failed, and he 
was transferred to Van Wert to succeed Brother Smith. The next 
year he was returned to Van Wert, and becoming acquainted with 
a Miss Anna Murphy, an accomplished school-teacher, he married 
her in April, 1894. She became a great help to him in his work. 
In '95 and '96 he was sent to Celina Circuit, where illness and death 
overtook him. On March 6th, 1897, he took his departure, in full 
assurance of the faith. Interment took place in the Ackerman 
Cemetery at Kendallville, D. S. Oakes and J. H. Evans conducting 
the obsequies. 

As a minister, he was full of zeal. He was a devoted and suc- 
cessful soul-winner. As a pastor, he was beloved, unsparing in 
devotion and sympathetic. His was a social nature, blessed with 
a jovial and entertaining spirit. He was witty, congenial and pos- 
sessed of a good bit of humor. "Like Abraham Lincoln, he had a 
remarkable fund of anecdotes, suited to almost every occasion, al- 
ways prepared to give apt, spontaneous and striking illustra- 
tions." In conventions, especially, his wit was helpful. 



SALEM S. ALBERT (1840-1903) 

Brother Albert was born in E. Germantown, Indiana, June 
13, 1840, where he also grew up to manhood and acquired his pri- 
mary education. He took advanced studies at Dublin, Ind., and in 
'63 matriculated at Plainfield College. He also learned the trade 
of broom-makmg, which he pursued for a while. 

Concerning his conversion and consecration to the work of 
the Lord, he says, "Before my conversion I thought I would be re- 
ligious, and tried to do the right, but could not do as I thought the 
Bible required. The reason was that I was not pardoned of my 

108 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

sins, and as such a person I was under great condemnation. In 
'56, I firmly resolved to seek Christ for the forgiveness of my sins, 
and found Him precious to my soul." Later on he dedicated him- 
self to the Lord, which he expressed in the following lines : 

"Since Christ has bought me with His blood, 

I am, therefore, no more my own. 
He will wash me in that crimson flood, 

His death for all my sin atones. 
As Christ has given all for me, 

To Him my everything I give ; 
And in His courts I'll ever be, 

And to His glory try to live, 

"My time is His, I shall improve 
It to His honor, and to my good. 
Not one thing will I hence remove, 

But dedicate it as I should ; 
My hands shall be in His employ. 
And every day work to His praise." 

He at once united with the Evangelical Association after his 
conversion, and in '61 was elected as an exhorter, whose duty it 
was to give a short exposition of a Scripture passage and urge 
people to live accordingly. This gave him excellent opportunity to 
develop his talents in public speaking. In a few years his class 
heartily recommended him to Conference for the work of a min- 
ister. 

HIS MINISTRY 

He received his license as preacher on probation, and was 
received into the itinerancy, Sept., 1865. Prior to this step in his 
life, he clerked in a hardware store at Indianapolis. While here, 
he was convinced of his divine call. He served as follows : 1865-6, 
DeKalb; 1866-7, Fulton; 1867-8, Huntington; 1868-9, Defiance; 
1869-71, Spring Grove; 1871-2, Fulton again; 1872-3, Twin Lakes; 
1873-4, Gilead ; 1874-6, E. Germantown ; 1876-8, St. Mary's ; 1878- 
9, Van Wert; 1879-81, N. Paris; 1881-3, Edgerton ; 1883-5, Nobles- 
ville; 1885-7, Van Wert again; 1887-8, Kendallville; 1878-91, Mish- 
awaka ; 1891-2, Bruce Lake ; 1892-3, Julietta ; 1893 he located. Sup- 
plied Wabash 1898-9, six months; 1902, South Side, Elkhart; 1903, 
Decatur, until Dec. 14th, when he died "in the harness," as he de- 
sired it. 

109 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

The following rules he adopted for himself when pastor at 
Spring Grove, near Danville, 111., 1869 : 

1. When at all possible, arise at 4 A. M, for prayer, reading 
of God's Word and meditation. The reading shall be systematic. 

2. Visit at least one family or person each day for the pur- 
pose of conversing with them regarding the salvation of their 
souls. 

3. Never attempt preaching a text which was not studied 
upon the knees. 

4. Daily commit a portion of God's Word. 

5. Each day observe some hour for secret devotion. 

6. Study to show thyself approved of God unto all men. 
How near he realized these rules we are not told ; but they are 

worthy of general adoption. 

Brother Albert was a pious and conscientious servant of God, 
affable, faithful and indulgent. He was not eloquent or deep in his 
preaching, rather practical and exhortatory. He labored with average 
success, and was nobly supported by his wife, who was a Miss M. 
L. Hudnett, whom he had married in Sept., 1868. He was the 
father of seven children, of which three survived him. 

The funeral services were held in the Watchtower Church at 
Elkhart, in charge of J. 0. Mosier. Aug. Geist, a life-long friend, 
was to preach the sermon, but failing to arrive in time, on ac- 
count of a wreck on the road, S. H. Baumgartner gave an address 
on his life and work in the Conference. A goodly number of the 
'ministers were present. Interment was made at Elkhart, Dec, 
1903. 



MICHAEL ALSPACH (1812-1886) 

Synopsis: Born in Union Co., Pa., Dec. 4, 1812. Died in 
North Minneapolis, Minn., Aug. 21, 1886. Converted in 1838. Li- 
censed to preach by the Ohio Conference in 1855. Ordained dea- 
con in 1857, and as elder in 1859. Buried in the Lac Wood Ceme- 
tery of Minneapolis. Survived by wife and 6 children. 

Alspach served in 3 Conferences — Ohio, Indiana and Kansas 
— until age compelled him to retire. His desire to save souls con- 
tinued to the end. His last public work was done Aug. 8, '86, 
offering the closing prayer and pronouncing the benediction with 
spiritual vigor and unction. 

He was received into the Indiana Conference from the Ohio 
in '56, and moved on Elkhart Circuit near Benton, Ind., onto a 
farm, 7 miles south-east of Goshen. From this place he traveled 

110 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

in Indiana and Michigan. He served one year in Ohio with Aaron 
Jambert. In the Indiana Conference he served as follows: '56, 
St. Joseph Circuit in Michigan ; in '57, St. Joseph Circuit and Cal- 
houn Mission in Michigan ; in '58, Elkhart Circuit, his home field ; 
in Sept., '59, DeKalb Mission. He also had supervision of Defiance 
Mission this year, with Geo. A. Hertel as colleague. In '60 he 
served St. Mary's Circuit with B. Uphaus ; in '61, Berrien Cir- 
cuit, Mich. ; in '62, Fulton Circuit, with D. S. Oakes as colleague. 
This was a year of great trials and difficulties. This circuit was 
300 miles in circumference, requiring 3 weeks to a round, preach- 
ing daily. 

Alspach sufl:'ered much from asthma. His oldest son, who 
worked the farm up to this time, was now in the Civil War. The 
sympathizers with the Confederates were many. Religious life was 
at a low ebb. At one time Alspach was so wrought up by an attack 
on him from an officer of the church that he forgot his evening 
appointment, and was 12 miles past it before he thought of it. In 
'63 he was sent to Cicero Circuit, which closed his ministry in the 
Indiana Conference, having united with the new Michigan Con- 
ference, organized Sept., '64. 

This Conference sent him to Lima Circuit, and he continued 
work several years, when he moved his family near Plainfield, 111., 
and sustained a local relation with the Illinois Conference for 4 or 
5 years. After this he moved to Missouri and united with the 
Kansas Conference, in which he traveled until old age compelled 
him to locate. He was a good and pious man. It was said of him, 
"He was not eloquent in his preaching, but unostentatious, ear- 
nest, sincere and exhortative. He had some good success." 



CHRISTIAN C. BAUMGARTNER (1842-1902) 

Synopsis : Born at Orange, Dachfelden, Canton of Berne, 
Switzerland, Feb. 2, 1842 ; died at Elkhart, Indiana, Sept. 3, 1902 ; 
buried at Elkhart ; converted in the Old Baptist Church, near Linn 
Grove, Ind., '68, under the labors of J. Fuchs. Licensed to preach, 
Sept., '70; entered the active work, Sept., '75; ordained deacon, 
'76; elder, '78; served as Presiding Elder 8 years; twice was 
delegate to General Conference; 3 times Secretary (German) of 
the Conference ; taught public school from his 13th to 17th year ; 
court interpreter at Bluffton ; Doctor of Medicine, '63 to '75, '87- 
1902 ; preached from '75 to '87 ; married Barbara Lehman, of Ohio, 
Oct. 8, '63 ; father of five children. 

Ill 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



HIS BOYHOOD DAYS AND IMMIGRATION TO AMERICA 

He was the second son of John Baumgartner, a school teacher 
and book-binder. His father carefully directed the inclinations 

of his sons, and endeavored to give 
them a good, Christian, as well as 
a secular, education. To the grief 
of the family, the father died when 
the boys were but 9 and 11 years 
old, Christian being the younger. 
This caused them great sadness, 
and when it came to leaving the 
blue Jura mountains of Switzer- 
land and their many friends, it 
went doubly hard. 

Christian had a special knack 
for learning, reading print at the 
early age of four years. He was 
witty and humorous, saying of 
himself that he had no talent to 
sing up to his eighth year. He got 
hold of a book that had these 
words in it, "Songs with their own 
melody." "That suits me," he 
said. "I can sing my own melo- 
dy to these songs," and he pro- 
ceeded to do so to the dismay of those about him. Later on he 
became a good singer and a vocal teacher. 

At the age of six, he went to school, his father being 
the teacher, and read French as readily as a boy of 13. In '49, 
with his parents, he came to Fluh, among the mountains, where 
his poetic feelings were awakened. Close to his home there was 
a waterfall, below which were fish. Trying to catch some of 
them, he fell in, and would have drowned, had not his brother 
called his parents in time to the rescue. There were many crabs 
in the stream, and being very fond of crab-meat, he would catch 
them, and unceremoniously eat them raw! He had a great liking 
for literature, especially for history, reading, early in life, Pilgrim's 
Progress, Stilling's Works, Huebner's Biblical History, History of 
the Turkish. Wars, History of Switzerland, and Natural History. 

Concerning their migration to America, he writes, "After a 
five days' stay at Havre, we boarded the ship 'Gentleman of Nor- 

112 




CHRISTIAN C. BAUMGARTNER 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

folk,' and after 42 days, rocking on the billowy ocean, at eventide, 
we reached Manhattan, near New York. There were 160 pas- 
sengers on board, all of which, but three, took sea-sickness, I being 
one of the three that escaped the ordeal. When we neared the 
land, the lights of New York and Brooklyn cast their glimmer 
upon the waters. To the right were the palaces of Castle Garden 
and the light-house of Sandy Hook ; to the left. Ft. Lafayette with 
her 200 cannon, threatening the deep, while the masts of the thou- 
sands of ships in New York harbor looked like a large piece of 
timber in winter. Back of all this lay the green ocean, dashing 
high her waves, together with numerous ships and pilot-boats that 
silently glided to and fro like huge swans." 

He was homesick for the fatherland, with its Alpine scenes, 
fantastic colors formed by the morning and evening sun playing 
upon the glaciers; its Sunday mornings with ringing church-bells 
and re-echoing mountains, and, above all, the friendships that were 
left behind. A new world lay before him, a vforld with an unknown 
language and strange customs. 

Landing the morning after their arrival, they spent the day 
on land, and, boarding the steamer "Henry Hudson," at eventide, 
they reached New Albany, N. Y., the next morning. They pro- 
ceeded to Buffalo by rail, and from thence to Cleveland by boat, 
and finally to Sugar Creek Township, Wayne County, Ohio, where 
they were royally received by relatives. After a seven weeks' stay 
they proceeded to Berne, Ind., where her brother was living, and 
where they remained until the marriage of the mother. Christian's 
mother and brother went several miles every day to work, leaving 
him alone. The surroundings were new and uninviting. Wolves 
prowled about, and all manner of wild things ; he had no books to 
read, was weak in body, and too young to work, and altogether he 
felt miserable and neglected. A few months later a change came 
to all this. His mother married Rev. Christian Baumgartner, of 
Vera Cruz, with whom they had spent a few days on their way to 
Berne. Now he could attend an English school, and, making rapid 
progress, was soon at the head of his class. 

In '55 he attended school at Bluffton, Ind., being as happy as 
could be. His leisure hours were often spent on the banks of the 
Wabash, fishing and thinking of the time when Red Jacket and 
Tecumseh lived along this stream ; and of the camp-fires of the 
Shawnees and Delawares that lived under the sycamore trees smok- 
ing their pipes, and of their tomahawks in hand when they gave 
the "war-cries," to the terror of new settlers. Here in school he 

113 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

also made rapid progress, and soon ranked as one of the best in 
the class. 

He was now thirteen years old. It was decided that he should 
teach school. He took the prescribed examination, and received 
his license, and joyously returned home. 

While teaching, m„any amusing and sometimes irritating things 
occurred. He was a mere boy and small for his age. He had 
grown scholars, and some of which were very ignorant, 
ill-mannered, and brutish. He was firm, courageous and 
determined. His motives were often misunderstood, and hence 
he was slandered and persecuted ; but he always maintained 
h:'s manliness and credit. Few experience so much in so short a 
time as he, and the tension of teaching almost wrecked his body. 
During his teaching period he was often called on to act as court 
interpreter in Bluffton. He also used his pen in writing articles 
against wrong-doing, and defending the right. Profanity in those 
days was awful, slanders many, first-fightings frequent. The 
neighborhoods were like volcanoes, not knowing when they would 
belch forth the lava of profanity, slander, and end in gruesome 
deeds. He said, "There was at this time and place a religious war 
in progress." All churches fighting each other, each thinking 
themselves in the right. But the work of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation in this community wrought a great transformation. 

A STUDENT OF MEDICINE 

At this time ague was raging throughout the country, and 
this gave him a strong desire to study medicine. Rev. Klein, of 
Tiffin, Ohio, had previously urged him to enter the Reformed Sem- 
inary, and study for the ministry. He, however, had no such 
inclination, and realized that it was a great wrong to preach to 
suit the itching ears of the people. On May 27th, '59, at the age 
of seventeen, he left home to study medicine, without any guar- 
antee of having means enough even to pay for his tuition. His parents 
promised to assist him as much as their penury would allow, but 
he looked to God to provide the ways and means to fulfil his de- 
sire. He found a place with Dr. S. W. Bartges, of Akron, Ohio, 
where he also providentially met Dr. Barrick. Having finished 
his course of study, he began practicing in Wayne Co., among 
his Swiss friends. In '65, he moved to Linn Grove, Indiana, 
where he continued his practice for ten years with great success. 

114 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS . 

HIS CONVERSION 

It was here, under the labors of John Fuchs, who was hold- 
ing- a revival in the old Baptist Church, near the town, that he 
was converted, in the winter of 1868-9. Having attended some 
services he became serious about his salvation, but it was hard 
for him to pull away from the old Mennonites, especially since 
his step-father was one of the leading preachers of that denom- 
ination at this time. But his uncle, Samuel Baumgartner, brother 
of his step-father, called on him, and prevailed on him to come 
again to the revival. The Doctor consented, and when they en- 
tered the church it was crowded. Samuel Baumgartner went to 
the front, as usual, expecting the Doctor to follow. Turning 
around, he discovered that the Doctor was hunting for a rear 
seat. He motioned to him to come up in front, which he did, 
much against his desire. Brother Fuchs preached an unctuous 
sermon that gripped the Doctor's heart. When the invitation 
was given, the Doctor knelt and began to wrestle for salvation. 
Like others, he discovered that he had had only a form of godli- 
ness, and not the power. He was gloriously converted, and be- 
came very active in the Evangelical Association, of which he now 
became a member. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND MINISTRY 

He continued his profession, but soon felt that God had a 
higher calling for him. His class in Linn Grove recommended 
him to Conference for license to preach, which was granted at the 
Conference session, held at Indianapolis, in Sept., 1870. He now 
served in the local relation, together with his medical profession, 
until the fall of 1875, when he took the place of Rev. Maurer at 
Wabash, Ind., who had resigned on account of physical ailment. 
The Lord sealed his ministry by giving him many souls for his 
hire, especially near Urbana, Ind. (Speicher Settlement), where 
he had a great revival and organized the Urbana society of the 
Evangelical Association. In '78 he was sent to Elkhart, Division 
St. Church, and labored with good results. In '79 he was elected 
Presiding Elder and stationed on Indianapolis District, serving 
it 4 years. In '83 he w^as re-elected and stationed on Elkhart Dis- 
trict. The latter part of this term he was afflicted with an in- 
jured knee, which confined him to his bed for three months and 
left him a cripple. Had he listened to the attending physicians, 
his lower right limb would have been amputated. However, his judg- 
ment prevailed, and hence he was left in a better condition. On 
account of this misfortune he located in April, 1887, and again 

115 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

resumed the medical profession in Elkhart, Ind., where he con- 
tinued to the end of his life. This affliction robbed him consid- 
erably of his former energy and ambition, and he lost interest in 
his profession to some extent. 

His preaching- was unique. His Scriptural insight was clear 
and comprehensive ; descriptive power strong and lucid ; delivery 
easy, earnest, often with deep emotion, and somewhat in a mono- 
tone. He was as free in the English as in German. In general, 
he was a well-read man in the sciences, histories, biographies, 
and literature. He was also an occasional contributor to the church 
papers, always using good diction. He was highly esteemed by 
the brethren in the ministry. His medical knowledge gave him 
ready access to many homes while in the ministry. His pastor, 
M. W. Sunderman, had charge of the funeral services, while Rev. 
C. F. Hansing preached the sermon. Quite a number of ministers 
were present to show their last respects. 



JOHN BERGER (1841-1891) 

Synopsis : Born, Marshall Co., Ind., near Bremen, Aug. 17, 
'41. Died, Oakland, California, Dec. 12, '91, where he is buried. 
Converted, Aug. 26, '59. United with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. Enlisted as a soldier in the Civil War. Licensed by the 
Indiana Conference, '63. Ordained as deacon, '66 ; elder, '68 ; 
missionary to Germany, '74 ; Presiding Elder in Germany 3 years, 
in the Indiana Conference 3^4 years, and 3 years as special col- 
lector for missions to Germany. Delegate to General Conference 
from Germany. Married to Susannah von Allmen, of Olney, 111., 
Dec. 9, '66, father of 9 children. Secretary of the Conference, 
'71-3. 

His parents, natives of Rhenish Bavaria, Germany, Michael 
and Fredericka Berger, were honest and industrious farmers. 
They were members of the Lutheran Church, locating at Bremen, 
Indiana, where John grew to manhood. John endured all the 
hardships of a pioneer's family, being well acquainted with hard 
work and meager school privileges. By hard study he, neverthe- 
less, obtained a fair education, enabling him to teach school. He 
was the youngest of the family. 

HIS CONVERSION 

In '47, when he was six years of age, pioneer preachers of 
the Evangelical Association preached around Bremen. This year 

116 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



his parents were soundly convert- 
ed to God and united with the 
Evangelical Association, and this, 
John said, brought a great change 
in the family life that made a great 
impression upon his young heart. 
Early, the Spirit of God strove 
mightily with John, but he delayed 
making a definite decision for the 
Christian life until he was 18 years 
of age. About this time he became 
very ill, and he faithfully promised 
the Lord that if He would spare his 
life he would serve Him. He be- 
gan to pray for pardon of sin, and 
renewal of heart, so that he might 
live a consecrated life to God. After 
his recovery he did not forget his 
vows, and, praising God for the 

great deliverance, began to serve Him in earnest. On 
'59, he was "born again to a living hope unto eternal life.' 

HIS CALL TO THE MINISTRY 




JOHN BERGER 



Aug. 26, 



Soon after his conversion, there was awakened within him a 
strong desire to preach the Gospel, but being of a modest and timid 
nature, he found it difficult to yield. He began stifling his convic- 
tions, and the small voice was no more heard until a terrific storm 
arose, flashing lightnings all about him. A bolt of lightning just 
missed hitting him by so much as a hair's breadth. Again the 
voice of God was heard, and he was now led to take up the work 
of the Gospel ministry. 

Just at this time the Civil War broke out, and he volunteered 
his services, entering Company K, 29th Indiana Volunteers. After 
passing through the great battle of Shiloh, he took sick and was 
honorably discharged from army life. 

After his return from the army, he regained his health, and 
urged by the brethren, entered the ministry. He was licensed 
by the Indiana Conference, and was assigned to Ionia Mission, now 
of the Michigan Conference, with J. Trometer as preacher-in- 
charge. He served very successfully the following fields : Ionia, 
'63 ; Defiance, '64 ; Olney, '65 ; Mt. Carmel, '66-67 ; Shelby, '68-69 ; 
South Bend, 1st, '70-72. In '74, the Board of Missions, appreciat- 
ing his ability, appointed him as missionary to Europe. He moved 

117 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

to Germany, and was appointed to the "Prussian Mission." He 
located in Essen, with his family, and began his work in said 
city and surrounding country. The Lord abundantly blessed his 
labors with many conversions, and a prosperous society was or- 
ganized as a result. He was our first missionary to Northern Ger- 
many, where he served for two years as missionary, and three 
years as Presiding Elder of Muelheim District. He was also in 
vital connection with the Reutlingen Seminary. While here, he 
was compelled to post his topics with a certain authority, and ob- 
tain his permission, before he was allowed to preach the sermon. 
At one time he v^'as detained by a policeman and had to prove that 
he was not a spy. He found, with others, that a missionary in 
Germany had a hard time finding recognition, and that the doors 
of opportunity can only be entered with much persecution and per- 
sistency. 

In the spring of '79, he again returned to America, re-entering 
the Indiana Conference, and was assigned to South Bend, 1st 
Church. The next three years he served as a special collector for 
the work in Germany, under the appointment of the Parent Mis- 
sionary Society. He proved to be efficient, and his work was 
crowned with eminent success. In '83 he was appointed to Wa- 
bash ; 1884 found him elected as Presiding Elder, in which office 
he served 314 years, finding it necessary, on account of his health, 
to locate after this time. In '88, he moved to California, in an at- 
tempt to regain his health, which was sufficiently restored so that 
he could enter the California Conference, being assigned to Los 
Angeles. In '91, he was stationed at Oakland, where he served with 
success until his decease. 

While still on the district, he met with a rather serious acci- 
dent on the La Gro road leading into Wabash. His horse became 
frightened at an approaching train, and, running away, threw him 
out of the buggy, breaking his leg. 

He thoroughly understood the plan of salvation, and could pre- 
sent the same effectually, and he led many souls to Christ. He was 
recognized as an eff'ective pulpiteer; his sermons were lucid, deep 
and logical, both doctrinal and practical, instructive and edifying. 
He w^as a peer among preachers, fearless in attacking sin, positive 
in his convictions, but considerate of other men's views. He was 
congenial, a splendid pastor, and a great soul-winner. His motto 
was, "To lead souls to Christ," and "to labor for the Master." The 
church had in him a useful servant, a wise counsellor, and a sincere 
worker. He was highly esteemed by the brethren. He greatly 
deplored the division of the church, and took a neutral standpoint, 

118 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

which also defeated him as a delegate to General Conference in '87. 
He was a frequent contributor to our church papers. The funeral 
services were held in a Methodist Episcopal Church at Oakland, 
Cal., by Rev. H. Cordes, and others assisting. 



SAMUEL E. BEVERLY (1859-1894) 

Brother Beverly was born in Huntington County, Pa., Feb. 
11, 1859. When but a child his parents moved to Huntington Co., 
Tnd., and at the age of 12 he went to live with Samuel McCaughey, 
where he remained until his marriage to Miss Clara Schock, Nov. 
1, 1882. He farmed until '91, then moved into Huntington, and 
clerked in a hardware store for a year and a half. His parents 
were members of the Evangelical Association and reared him un- 
der this beneficent influence. Under the ministry of Geo. Roe- 
derer he was led to accept Christ and also to unite with our church. 

He heard the call to the ministry soon after his conversion, 
but being of limited education he felt disqualified for so import- 
ant a work, and, therefore, hesitated. Finally he yielded to the 
call, which grew stronger from time to time, and received his rec- 
ommendation from the Huntington society, and was duly licensed 
as preacher on probation, April, '92. April, '93, he was assigned 
to his first charge, N. Webster Mission, upon which he entered with 
courage and determination. Being social and conscientious, he 
soon won the confidence and esteem of his parishioners. 

On a hot Sunday night in July he was obliged to sleep in a 
very warm, unaired room, and in order to be more comfortable, 
he opened a window and retired. During the night he took a fatal 
cold, and six months later, Feb., 1894, he passed beyond. He was 
conscious to the end, and his going out was gloriously triumphant. 
During his illness he exhorted his visiting friends to live right. It 
was said that his sermons were Scriptural and spiritual, and de- 
livered with great earnestness. They were clear, impressive and 
arousing. The funeral was held in the Evangelical Church at 
Huntington, Ind., by D. Martz, P. E., assisted by J. W. Metzner. 
The city pastors served as pall-bearers. He was survived by his 
wife and 2 sons. His body was laid to rest in the Huntington 
Cemetery. 



WILLIAM BOOKMAN (1814-1890) 

Born at Schauden, Hanover, Germany, Jan. 17, 1814, of Roman 
Catholic parents, who scrupulously reared him in that faith. In 

119 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

'39 he immigiated to America and came first to Cincinnati, 0., and 
after a few years moved to Huntingburg, Ind. Soon after his ar- 
rival at Huntingburg, he came under the influence of the pioneer 
preachers of the Evangelical Association, and by their earnest 
preaching was led into the true light, then "to repentance toward 
God, and faith through our Lord, Jesus Christ." One day, while 
he was passing a book-store in Cincinnati, he saw, for the first 
time, a German Bible. Being desirous of knowing what it con- 
tained, he went in and opened it, and read the words, "Translated 
by Dr. M. Luther." He at once closed the book, saying, "No good 
thing can come from Luther." He was intended for the Roman 
Catholic priesthood, and, therefore, had no confidence in a Bible 
translated by Luther. His early training made it very difficult for 
him to understand the true Word of God, but the Holy Spirit, who 
helps the sincere and humble to the way of eternal life, also helped 
Bockman. On Easter Monday, March 26, 1852, he knew the Lord 
— precious to his soul. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH 

After his conversion he esteemed the Bible the most wonder- 
ful treasure, and faithfully searched it daily. He soon perceived 
the divine call to preach the Gospel, which the class in Hunting- 
burg also recognized, and gladly recommended him and licensed 
him to preach, Aug., '52. 

HIS MINISTRY 

July 19, '53, he became assistant pastor to B. Uphaus, on 
Dubois Circuit, which embraced all the counties in South-western 
Indiana, and over into Illinois. In '54 he served on this same 
field with Jacob Keiper. In '55 he was assigned to Mt. Carmel 
Circuit in Illinois. In '56 he was sent to Marshall Circuit. In 
'57-8 he served Whitewater Circuit with E. L. Kiplinger. In '59 
to Clay County Mission (now Brazil). In '60-2 he served Warren- 
ton Circuit (now Elberfeld). In '62 South Bend Circuit, with 
.S. S. Condo as helper. In '63 he had DeKalb Circuit. C. Schamo 
was his colleague. In '64 he located, owing to family circum- 
stances, but in '62 he again entered the active work, and had Elk- 
hart Circuit assigned him. In '67 he was sent to Montgomery Cir- 
cuit (now Phillipsburg) . This ended his work in active minis- 
try. Being very corpulent, traveling became very burdensome, 
and he located in N. Webster, Ind. Later in life he became almost 
helpless, needing the care of his children. His sons, John and 
family, especially, cared for him until his end, which came Aug. 

120 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

2, 1890. He possessed a strong personality, was very sociable and 
winning, which gave him a good hold on the people he served. 

As a preacher he was able and efficient, logical and practical, 
rather than theological. He was forcible, at times eloquent, al- 
ways attracting attentive congregations. He had a strong, musi- 
cal voice, which would ring out in clarion tones in preaching and in 
singing. The people were glad to hear him, and never heard him 
in vain. He often led his hearers like the current of a river along 
with him, while tears streamed down over their faces, and the 
congregation was moved to wonderful shouts of praises. Brother 
Bockman once said that "tobacco was to him the eye which he must 
pluck out," and so he plucked it out and cast is from him forever. 
He practiced as he preached, and had many souls for his hire. 

M. Krueger officiated at his funeral, choosing as his text, 
"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." He was survived by 
his son John and 2 daughters. He was laid to rest in the cemetery 
of N. Webster. 



EARNEST BOHLANDER (1850-1894) 

The subject of this sketch was born at Schlitz, Hessen-Daim- 
stadt, Germany, June 4th, 1850. His father was a forester, labor- 
ing for the Count of Schlitz, and died when Earnest was but 11 
years old. The Count took an interest in Earnest, and sent him 
to school. When yet in his teens, he came to America. He had 
no relatives or acquaintances here, and settled at Wolf Creek, near 
Dayton, Ohio. He was a blacksmith by trade, which he pursued 
upon his arrival. He began attending services in the Evangeli- 
cal Church, and in a revival, conducted by J. K. Troyer, pastor 
of the Montgomery Circuit, was deeply convicted of his sins and 
led to repentance. He then united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. 

It was not long until he became conscious of a call of the 
Lord unto the work of the ministry. The Wolf Creek class recom- 
mended him, and the Annual Conference, held in '73, licensed him 
as preacher on probation. With Wesseling, he was stationed to 
Carmi Circuit. In '74, he served Greenville Circuit, under E. R. 
Troyer. In '75, he retired from active work. In '76 he became 
a charter member of the South Indiana Conference, and was as- 
signed to Murphysboro, serving it two years. In '78, he was sent 
to Shelby; in '79-82, to Tabor; '82-84, to Rockport; '84-85, to Ev- 
ansville; '85-88, to Grayville; '88-89, to Olney; '89-93, no record; 

121 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

'93, sent by the Indiana Conference to Medaryville, which con- 
cluded his ministry. 

As a preacher, it was said of him, that he "was systematic. 
Scriptural and unctuous, gifted in speech, and possessing the 
knack of fascinating an audience. That he frequently became elo- 
quent, and achieved success for the church. He had his weak- 
nesses as other men. For several years he suffered from chronic 
ailments which baffled the skill of the physicians. 

His death, which occurred in Sept., 1894, was tragic. "He under- 
took, in the night, to remove his shot-gun, which he had used during 
the day, fearing that his children might get into trouble with it, and 
in so doing the gun, in some way, was discharged, tearing away 
the half of his head. Eternity alone will reveal how it happened." 

The brethren H. Weisshaar and C. Kalwitz preached at his 
funeral, and C. F. Hansing assisted. His body was interred at 
San Pierre, and later removed to Carmi, 111., where his widow, a 
Katherin Zeigler, had located. 



WILLIAM G. BRAECKLY (1849-1913) 

This genial brother was born at Phedelbech, Wurttemberg, 
Germany, Sept. 22, 1849. His parents, Gottlob and Margaretha, 
were highly esteemed citizens, frugal, industrious, upright and re- 
I'gious. It was their earnest desire to give their children the 
proper training for a useful life. William was the youngest of 
10 children. 

KIS EDUCATION AND CONVERSION 

He was especially endowed with gifts, which, if properly di- 
:ccted and invested, would make him a very useful man. His 
teacher and pastor soon observed this and appealed to his parents 
ti direct him to choose some educational calling. He availed him- 
self of all the educational opportunities that offered themselves to 
him, both by the school and the church. At 14 years of age he 
completed his catechetical course, was confirmed and became a 
member of the Lutheran Church. He desired to continue his stud- 
ies, but his father induced him to assist him in his work. In '67 
his brother-in-law, Valentine Schaaf, of Indianapolis, Ind., visited 
the fatherland, which William always considered to have been 
providential, and he concluded to leave his home and go with 
Mr. Schaaf to America. On March 10, '67, they safely arrived at 
Indianapolis, Ind. Here, by the influence of his sister, he was 
brought under the preaching of the Evangelical Association, and 

122 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



/- 




WM. G. BRAECKLY 



through the labors of John Fuchs awoke to his real condition. 
Later, under the ministry of Fr. Wiethaup, he was, as he loved to 
put it, "born again deep into 
eternal life." At once he be- 
came an active member of the - % 
1st Church and took a deep in- 
terest in Sunday-school, prayer- 
meetings and all other public 
services. He soon gave evidence 
of possessing gifts for public 
work, and that the divine call 
to preach was upon him. Though 
very limited in means, he de- 
cided to enter North-Western 
College, in order to better pre- 
pare for the work of the holy 
ministry. Upon hearing this, 
his relatives and friends in In- 
dianapolis cheerfully assisted 
him with means. He completed 
the German Course with credit, 
besides pursuing other select studies. His school-life was not 
without its hardships, as he oftentimes related. Great economy 
had to be exercised and luxuries denied. Meals were of the sim- 
plest kind, and for a time were prepared by himself and his room- 
mate. He had the spirit of industry, frugality and honesty, and 
was possessed of a great ambition for soul-saving. 

He was licensed to preach Sept., '71, by the Indiana Confer- 
ence, and was assigned to Rockport. Here he remained for 2 
years, serving it with blessing and profit. He served the follow- 
ing fields: 73-74, Elkhart, Division St.; '75-77, Olney; '78-80, 
Louisville, Zion; '81-83, Evansville; '84-85, Olney; '86-88, Terre 
Haute; '89-90, Marshall; '91-92, Evansville; '93-96, South Bend, 
1st; '97-98, Indianapolis, 1st; '99-02, Bremen; '03-05, Huntingburg; 
'06-10, Louisville, Zion; '11-13, Huntingburg. In all he gave 42 
years of uninterrupted service to the ministry in the Indiana Con- 
ference, including the time spent in the South Indiana Conference. 

When this South Indiana Conference was formed he became 
one of its charter members, remaining with her through all her 
turmoils, until the reincorporation with the Indiana Conference in 
'93. He served this Conference as its secretary from '76-86, and 
in '88. In '87 a church-building society was formed in that Con- 
ference, of which he became president. Twice he represented 

123 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

that Conference as trustee to North-Western College and Union 
Biblical Institute. In '81, he was one of four elected to gather 
material for the second volume of our Evangelical Association 
History. He built three churches and three parsonages during 
his pastorate at Olney, Bremen, and Huntingburg. 

AN APPRECIATION 

Brother Braeckly was blessed with a strong, symmetrical 
physique, a good bearing that gave him a commanding appearance, 
and proved to be a great asset in his work. He possessed a power- 
ful sonorous voice, which he ably used in song as well as in pro- 
claiming the truth. He had a cordial disposition, a strong person- 
ality, was congenial, a good conversationalist, and blessed with a 
good store of mother-wit and humor. 

He was a lover of good music, both instrumental and vocal. 
He was an enthusiastic singer himself, and could inspire his peo- 
ple with that same enthusiasm. He readily translated songs that 
he fancied into either the German or English language. He was 
the owner of a very fine violin, of rare make, which he refused to 
sell on account of its rarity, and, which he claimed, was converted 
with him. He would frequently use it in divine service. He was 
somewhat of a poet, and at times indulged in it. In his younger 
days he was a frequent contributor to the Botschaftcr under the 
assumed name of "Indianicus." 

As a preacher, he was mostly practical and exhortative, always 
•earnest and effective. He preached a full salvation. In his work 
he was always enthusiastic, and won many souls to Christ. His 
path was not always smooth, nor free from sorrow. Three times 
he was called upon to follow the bier of a loved and highly use- 
ful companion. 

THE OBSEQUIES 

Sickness deprived him of the privilege of attending the Con- 
ference of 1913. One month later he entered the Land of Rest. On 
May the 2nd the funeral services were held in our church at 
Huntingburg, where he just closed his ministry and preached his 
last sermon on Easter Sunday. He requested that Phil. 1 : 21, 
"For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain," be his funeral text. 
Brother Luehring and A. B, Haist conducted the services at Hunt- 
ingburg, and D. E. Zechiel, Geo. Roederer and D. 0. Wise at Louis- 
ville, where, in that beautiful city of the dead. Cave Hill, his body 
sleeps until the resurrection. He was survived by his last wife and 
six daughters. 

124 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



JOHN BRUCKERT (1845-1910) 




Brother Bruckert was born in Germany, August loth, 1845, 
of honorable Lutheran parents, and with them he came to Amer- 
ica, in 1849, locating in Cincin- 
nati, Ohio. 

While here he received an or- 
dinary school education, and then 
learned the art of making trunks. 
Upon hearing that at Louisville, 
Ky., better wages were being paid 
for trunk-making, he moved thith- 
er, and identified himself with our 
Zion Church, taking an active part 
in her services. Ever since his 
conversion, which took place at 
Cincinnati, in '71, under our mis- 
sionaries, he took a deep interest 
in the welfare of our church, and 
loyally supported her to his end. 

The church recognized his fit- 
ness for the work of the ministry, 
and urged him to enter it. How- 
ever, he regarded himself as un- 
qualified for so important a work, 
and for three years refused. He had no rest, and after a severe 
inner conflict, yielded and was recommended by his class to the 
Conference for license. He was very timid, and prone to discredit 
his own ability. On the day he left his home for the Conference, 
in company with Geo. Roederer and some other applicants for 
license, he got discouraged and would have turned back home 
again, had not the brethren with him persuaded him to continue 
the journey to the Conference. He was at that time already at 
the boat-landing, ready to get aboard for Evansville. He pro- 
ceeded to the Conference and was duly licensed. This was in the 
year of 1875. 

HIS APPOINTMENTS 

In '75 he was sent to Defiance Circuit with E. Einsel. In 
'76-78 he served Julietta ; '78-79, Rochester Circuit with D. J. 
Pontius, While on this work, becoming greatly discouraged, he 
wanted to surrender his license to his Presiding Elder, M. W, 
Steff'ey, and go home, but Brother Steff'ey prevailed upon him to 
continue, and he resumed his work. In April, '79, he was as- 

125 



JOHN BRUCKERT 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

signed to North Webster Circuit, serving it three years. In 1882 
he was sent to Bunker Hill under very trying circumstances and 
difficulties. In '83 he was assigned to St. Mary's Circuit, and in 
'85 to Edgerton. At the end of this year, April, '86, on account 
of great discouragement, he located. But when A. R. Schafer died, 
before he even reached his appointment in Mishawaka, Brother 
Bruckert was prevailed upon to re-enter the active work. This 
incident encouraged him to believe that after all the Lord had 
some work for him to do, and he resolved never to locate until the 
Conference saw fit to do so of her own accord. In '88, he was sent 
to Newville, where he remained two years. His health began to 
fail, and he felt a change of climate must be had. Consequently, 
in Sept., '90, he united with the South Indiana Conference, serv- 
ing Rockport until the reincorporation of the South Indiana Con- 
ference in 1893. He was then sent to Tabor, noM^ Elberfeld, and 
in '94. to West Salem. For two years he served this place, and 
passed through severe financial distress. In '96 he was again sent 
to Bunker Hill, and after two years found it necessary to locate, 
on account of bodily infirmities. 

Brother Bruckert had a hard time financially, having a large 
family to support, and never received $500.00 salary until he 
moved to Bunker Hill the last time. He was a very liberal giver, 
even to a fault, and, in consequence, his family at times had to 
suffer. He was kind and helpful to the poor, even to the extent 
of buying clothes for beggars. He was affectionate and kind in 
the home, and had great trust in God. He was earnest and 
punctual in his work. In his preaching he was exhortative, clear. 
Scriptural, practical and unctuous. He led many souls to Christ, 
and was highly esteemed by the brethren. He endured many 
hardships, on account of poor traveling facilities, poor accommo- 
dations, and meager financial support. At one time, while riding 
along in his buggy, his wife being with him, he was not satisfied 
with the gait of the horse, and, giving it a lash, caused it to start 
on a runaway. Not knowing much about horses at this time, he 
said to his wife, "This is the way I like to ride." Ere long, both 
of them were thrown out of the buggy, and badly scarred and 
bruised, but not seriously hurt. 

After a protracted illness. Brother Bruckert fell asleep in the 
Lord, October 9, 1910. His body was buried in the Bunker Hill 
Cemetery, awaiting the call of God on that great Day. His wife, 
a Sarah Hansing, and six children survived him. 



126 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



PETER BURGENER (1820-1889) 

Peter Burgener saw the light of this world, Feb. 12, 1820, in 
Grinclelwald, Canton of Berne, Switzerland. His father. Christian 
by name, was a shoe-maker, and 
together, with his wife, Kathrina, 
was a pious member of the German 
Reformed Church. Peter was care- 
fully reared in the faith of his par- 
ents, being bap<tized, catechized 
and confirmed, according to the 
tenets of the Reformed Church. 
Even from his childhood he was 
studious and religious, which no- 
ble characteristics continued with 
him throughout life. His school- 
teacher, "Peter Glaus," testified 
that he was "studious, diligent and 
talented, having made marked 
progress in his studies, and de- 
ported himself grandly." With his 
parents he immigrated to America 
in the spring of 1834, and located 
in Wayne Co., Ohio. In the fall of 
this year his father died, leaving a 
widow and 5 children, of whom Peter was the second in age. Two 
years later his elder brother was accidentally killed, and the sup- 
port of the family rested largely upon him until his 24th year. 




PETER BURGENER 



HIS CONVERSION AND CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

In the fall of 1843 he married Barbara Grossman, who proved 
a great blessing and help to his life. At their marriage both he 
and his wife were unconverted, and were strangers to grace. In 
the spring of 1845 he heard a preacher deliver a message on Rev. 
3 : 20, which went to his heart like an arrow. He was deeply con- 
victed of his sinful condition, and began at once earnestly to seek 
the Lord. That he was sincere, was evidenced by the fact that he 
immediately set up a family altar, kneeling in prayer. This 
greatly incensed his father-in-law, who accused him of apostasy 
from Protestantism, and with leading his family back to popery. 
His father-in-law became so em.bittered against Peter that even 
when he moved away he refused to take the hand of parting that 
was extended to him. The same spring, P. Burgener, with his 

127 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

family, mother, brother and sister, moved to Hepton, Kosciusko 
Co., Indiana. While here, he and his brother-in-law began hold- 
ing prayer-meetings, to which also some of the neighbors came. 
None of them were as yet converted, but in the fall of this year 
some Evangelical preachers came into this neighborhood and 
preached. But not until 1846 did any conversions take place. 
First a neighbor's wife, and then Peter's wife were converted. 
This experience of theirs greatly encouraged Peter, who sought 
nure earnestly than ever after the "Pearl of Greatest Price." 
While out in his clearing, one day, he knelt in prayer, and the 
Lord of grace filled his soul with peace and light. He knew he was 
saved. 

He at once felt a great inner persuasion to preach the Gos- 
pel of salvation to his neighbors. Soon others were converted, 
and a class was formed, he becoming the leader. Having served 
one year as class-leader — Satan trying him sorely — he was elected 
to the office of exhorter, which office then was next to that of a 
minister. His impression to preach grew as time went on, and 
finally he received license. The license to preach in itself did not 
satisfy him, for he believed that he ought to give all his time to 
this work. However, he considered his temporal affairs to be 
such that he could not leave his family, without first providing 
more fully for their wants. Hence he gave himself more earnestly 
to farming and clearing, hoping soon to be able to lay a little by, 
so that he could give himself to preaching. After toiling hard for 
-two whole years, and having met with some severe reverses, he 
felt that he must obey God at once and preach the Gospel, no mat- 
ter what the cost. Thus June found him attending the Annual 
Conference in Des Plaines, 111., where he was received into the 
itinerancy. 

HIS MINISTRY 

With Peter Goetz, he was assigned to St. Mary's Circuit, 
which embraced Williams, Defiance, Van Wert and Mercer Coun- 
ties in Ohio, and Jay, Adams, Wells, Huntington, Wabash, Allen, 
Noble, DeKalb and Lagrange Counties in Indiana. There were 
some twenty appointments on this field, which required about 450 
miles traveling on horseback to make one round. Roads were 
very bad, and many streams unbridged. His home was 50 miles 
from his nearest appointment, and he was almost constantly away 
from his home. At one time his horse was not able to travel for 
a period of nine weeks, and he obliged to borrow another. This 
one became so lame that he had to abandon it and travel the rest 

128 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

of the way on foot. With undaunted courage he made his ap- 
pointments, and during this one year traveled some 4,000 miles 
and preached 198 times. His greatest enemy during this year was 
chill-fever. 

In 1851 the Illinois Conference session was held in Brookville, 111., 
and he was returned to St. Mary's with B. Uphaus as preacher-in- 
charge. Their labors were crowned with conversions and acces- 
sions; however, he was greatly hindered by malarial fever, at one 
time being disabled for three weeks. In April, 1852, he assisted 
Brothers Goetz and S. Dickover in holding a revival meeting in 
Lindsy school-house. Wells Co., Ind. A number knelt for prayer 
and sought the Lord and found Him precious and real to their 
souls. This was the beginning of our work at Linn Grove. 

In 1852 he became a charter member of the Indiana Confer- 
ence, and was assigned to Dubois Circuit, the now Huntingburg 
Churches, and the counties in South-western Indiana. G. Franzen 
was his colleague. Upon his return from the Conference session 
one of his children died. This was, indeed, a sad blow, coming, as 
it did, just upon the eve of their removal to a home 300 miles dis- 
tant. After a two weeks' journey, per buggy, they came to their 
new "parsonage" (?), all tired and spent. This year was in many 
ways a good year, the Lord crowning his labors with success. One 
occurrence gave him much joy. A young woman and her husband 
were converted and joined the church. The mother of this woman 
threatened "to cut her throat" if she joined these people and their 
fanaticism. He also had the pleasure of receiving Christian Ude, 
who afterward became one of our preachers. Frequent recur- 
rences of chill-fever, however, greatly hindered him in his work. 
Still he pushed onward and upward. In 1853 he purchased two 
church lots in Evansville, Ind., for the sum of $360.00. 

In 1853 he was sent to Olney Mission in Illinois, and moved 
into a small house on Grand Prairie, 4 miles from Olney. As yet 
we had no society in Olney, but in December, 1853, he succeeded 
in getting a lot donated and secured subscriptions amounting to 
$600.00 for a church building. A structure 32x45 ft. was soon un- 
der way. He labored with his own hands in building of the 
church, working in stone and timber, and did much of the hauling. 
(This frame church was dedicated 1855.) During this same 
year, 1853, he laid the foundation of the West Salem society. 
Olney and Fox River classes were organized by him in May. At 
the Conference session he was returned to Olney, only to face a 
year of great trial and bereavement. His youngest child passed 
away in Oct., 1854, and his bosom companion and constant sup- 

129 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

port departed Feb. 6, 1855. His wife had been a very pious 
woman, a great and godly mother, who, with the meager allow- 
ance, m_anaged to keep her brood in food and clothing. 

In 1855 he was sent to Marshall Circuit in Illinois. He was 
greatly handicapped because there was no mother in the home 
to take care of the children, and upon urgent advice from his 
brethren in the ministry he married Louisa Wiechman, July 17, 
1855. She became a great help to him and lifted a great burden 
off his heart. He was eager with the other preachers of those 
days to find new openings for the preaching of the Gospel. And 
there were m.any openings, for the simple reason that the Ger- 
mans were neglected, and our preachers worked in the Geiman 
exclusively. He succeeded in making new appointments from 
time to time. 

In 1856 he was assigned a second time to St. Mary Circuit, 
where he had good success. Especially was he successful at the 
Reserve, around Huntingburg, at Young's in Wabash County, near 
Celina, and about Van Wert. In September of 1857 he was re- 
turned, and this year had 104 conversions and 114 accessions. He 
dared to deviate from the time-honored custom of a few days' 
meeting, and continued them 8 to 14 days. At the Hertel appoint- 
ment the wife of an unconverted man, while enjoying the bless- 
ings of God in a meeting, was suddenly stricken dead with apo- 
plexy. Burgener greatly feared for the result, but when the hard- 
hearted husband and haughty daughter came to meeting where 
the dead mother lay, they were seized with deep conviction, and 
the daughter was gloriously saved then and there. This greatly 
encouraged the believers and made them strong to do exploits. 

In 1858 he was assigned to Fulton Circuit, then to St. Joseph 
Circuit, and in 1860 to his home field, Yellow River Circuit. This 
was very agreeable to him, and for two years he served it with 
great success. In September, 1862, he retired from the active 
work on account of some measures in the church he did not like, 
and for a time withdrew from the church altogether. However, 
he later reunited with the church, and was reinstated to his former 
relation to Conference. 

His later life was that of a farmer. Selling his farms, he 
purchased one near Prethy Lake, Plymouth, Ind., and here he 
spent the remainder of his days. He seldom preached in these 
later years because there was little opportunity to exercise in the 
German. Brother Oakes says of his preaching, "It was earnest, 
unctuous, eminently biblical." In character he was upright and 

130 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

uncompromising; in his work methodical, in his convictions fixed. 
His life was well spent, and his reward well earned. 

On April 16, 1889, after a short but painful illness, he slept 
the final sleep of death. Brother D. S. Oakes officiated at the 
funeral, assisted by J. M. Dustman and W. S. Tracy. He lies bur- 
ied near his farm at Prethy Lake, Tnd. 



J. M. CONDO (1845-1870) 

Brother Condo was born in Indiana, Jan. 7th, 1845, and died 
in Greencastle, Iowa, March 23rd, 1870. He was converted Jan. 
15, 1863, and united with the Evangelical Association. He was 
elected as exhorter during the same year. Sept., '64, he was 
licensed as preacher on probation, by the Indiana Conferenece, 
and sent to Fulton Circuit. He traveled only four weeks when he 
had to resign on account of sickness. In '6Q, he moved to Iowa, 
locating in a place where the Evangelical Association was not 
represented, and there united with the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. As his health somewhat improved, he traveled under the 
Methodist Episcopal Presiding Elder a few months. In '68, he 
visited his relatives in Greencastle, and reunited with the Evan- 
gelical Association, and took work again. He was appointed 
with B. Monischmit to travel Winterset and Afton Mission. Here 
he labored seven months with great success. At the session of 
'69, he was received by the Iowa Conference and assigned to the 
Des Moines Mission. But his health soon failed, and he was com- 
pelled to locate again. After a feM' months he took Greencastle 
work, where he seemed to improve in health for a while, but ere 
long he again had to lay dowai the work. He lived a pious life. 
With praises he looked into the beyond. Rev. H. J. Bowman, of 
our church, conducted his funeral services. Interment was made 
at Greencastle, Iowa. 



ELI E. CONDO, 1846-1880 

Brother Condo was born July 12, 1846, in E. Germantown, 
Ind., and was killed by a cyclone in Marshfield, Mo., April 18, 
1880, He was buried at Freeport, 111. He was reared in an Evan- 
gelical family. His mother died in his infancy. He was converted 
to God, March 15, 1863, and joined the Evangelical Association. 
In 1866 he was licensed to preach by the Indiana Conference, and 
was sent with Wm. Bockman on Elkhart Circuit. In 1867 he 
served on Fulton Circuit. In 1868 he was ordained deacon, and 

131 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

was sent on Twin Lake Circuit alone. In the fall of 1869 he 
filled a vacancy on the Naperville Mission in the Illinois Confer- 
ence, and joined this Conference in the spring of 1870, and was 
assigned to Freeport Mission, serving it two years. In the fall 
of this year he was married to Esther Dreisbach, of Carthage, 
Mo., daughter of J. E. Dreisbach, then Superintendent of the 
Orphan Home at Flat Rock, 0., with whom he lived happily until 
his tragic death. In 1873 he moved to Carthage, Mo., and united 
with the Kansas Conference, serving Carthage 3 years as a supply. 
In 1876 he joined the Des Moines Conference and served Des 
Moines Mission one year, and again returned to Missouri, in Dec, 
1877, and united Math the St. Louis Methodist Episcopal Confer- 
ence. In the spring of 1878, he w^as sent to N. Springfield, Mo. 
In 1879-80 to Marshfield. The closing scene of his life was as 
follows given by D. B. Beyers, of the Illinois Conference: "On 
April 18, Sunday A. M., he preached a very impressive sermon 
on 'The Goodness of God,' as if to prepare his own heart for the 
coming tragedy. In the afternoon he taught his colored Sunday- 
school class. Two hours later, when selecting hymns for the even- 
ing service, having already selected 'What a Friend We have in 
Jesus,' he heard the awful sound of the approaching cyclone. He 
rose quickly, walked out of the door, gathered his family under a 
large peach tree in the front yard, putting his arm around them, 
out of fear of them being carried away. In an instant the crash 
came ; all was as if it had been chaff before the cyclone. After the 
furious blast was over he inquired, 'What does all this mean?' 
He was much mangled and injured. His wife was brought to him 
bleeding profusely. He asked, 'Is she hurt much?' He was so 
much concerned for the welfare of his family that he said to the 
doctor, 'Let me die, and save my family.' In two hours he passed 
away." 



TIMOTHY CARROLL (1834-1894) 

This servant of God was born in Richland Co., Ohio (now 
Ashland) , July 19, 1834. He was converted in his 19th year, and 
at the age of 20 joined the United Brethren Church, in which 
church he entered as a minister and was ordained as deacon and 
as elder. 

His father seems to have been a wicked man, a drunkard, 
and kicked Timothy down a flight of stairs when but a child of 
eight years, injuring him so that he became afflicted with the 
"white swelling," which caused his lameness. His childhood was 

132 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

anything but pleasant, which, without doubt, occasioned his silence 
concerning his childhood days. His father was a cooper by trade. 
Timothy attended public school but six weeks in his life, yet by 
hard study at home he became a well-read man. 

He preached in the United Brethren Church in the North 
Ohio and Auglaize Conferences for 39 years, and gave very ac- 
ceptable service. In '66, he united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion and was received into the Indiana Conference. He labored 
earnestly and faithfully in the Indiana Conference on the follow- 
ing fields: Berne Circuit, '91; Wolcottville, '92-93; N. Paris, '94, 
which he served until the Lord called him, June 15th, 1894. 

He fell at his post. He was a man of strong and positive 
convictions, a loyal defender of the faith. Of him it was said: 
"As a preacher, he was sound in doctrine, clear, practical, deeply 
spiritual, possessing a deep emotional nature, which was often 
manifest in his preaching. He lived a consistent life. He gave 
himself to the Lord, to his church and to his family. He was pro- 
nounced against sin in every form, and took an active part in all 
reform movements. His suffering was brief, and his end peace." 
The funeral was held at New Paris, Ind., in the Evangelical 
Church. D. Martz preached the sermon, the brethren Scheidler, 
Evans, A. Geist, Albert and Bockman assisting. His wife, a Julia 
Ann Smith, whom he married in '69, and two sons and one daugh- 
ter survived him. 



JOHN CAUFFMAN (1816-1889) 

This brother was born April 25th, 1816, and died near Silver 
Lake, Kosciusko Co., Ind., Aug. 18th. 1889. He was converted to 
God at the age of 16 years, and united with the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation. He lived an earnest life to the end. He was licensed to 
preach in '36, and traveled 3Vj years, thereafter serving in a local 
relation. It was said of him that he possessed more than ordinary 
talents as a sermonizer. 

During the last eight years of his life, on account of impaired 
health, he could not attend divine services very often. He was 
married to Leah Swartz, July 22, 1839, and became the father of 
seven children, of whom three died. In '54 his wife died also, and 
in Jan., '56, he was married a second time to Eva Zellars, and to 
them were born nine children. His wife and eight children sur- 
vived him. 

His home was a true home to weary itinerant preachers. He 
had a warm reception waiting for them. He was also a good sup- 

133 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

porter of the church and the missionary cause, which lay near to 
his heart. He held the respect of young and old, and his name was 
honored in his community. 

His end was peaceful and in the Lord. Brother Wales preached 
his funeral sermon in the Gospel Church, near Silver Lake, near 
which place, also, his body is entombed. 



ADOLPH DASSEL (1830-1863) 

Born March 3rd, 1830, at Hanover, Germany, he died in the 
full assurance of the faith, April 25, 1863. He was converted, 
March 5, 1853, and united with the Evangelical Association. He 
vs^as licensed to preach by the Indiana Conference, Sept., 1862. 

As a young man he came to America with his parents, and 
located near Warrenton, now Tabor, Indiana. Here he soon was 
brought under the preaching of the Evangelical Association, and 
yielded to the wooings of the Holy Spirit, repented and was born 
again. By a true and faithful life he won the confidence of the 
people of his community. He had a fair German education, and 
possessed natural gifts necessary to ministerial success. Soon 
after his conversion he became conscious of his call to the Gos- 
pel ministry, but, like many others, resisted for a time. As the 
call grew more urgent, and the society became convinced that he 
should preach the Word, and advised him to give himself to the 
work, the class at Warrenton recommended him to Conference, 
and he was licensed ; but, having more applicants than were 
needed to supply the fields, he did not take work until Sept., 1863. 
Carmi was assigned to him, which he served with great satisfac- 
tion. His Presiding Elder said of him that, in his short career, 
he made warm friends of his members, and with his faithful vis- 
its among German families, and by his consistent life and kindness 
to all the people, he won the respect of nearly everybody 
within the circle of his mission. That he was meek, obliging, 
pious, modest, and possessed of excellent talents. His sermons were 
not overpowering, but yet permeated with the Holy Ghost, and that 
he insisted upon experimental religion. Shortly before his de- 
cease he said to his wife, "I am going home." He was suivived 
by his wife and five small children. The church lost by his death 
a promising young man, and the family an indulgent father. In- 
terment was made in Carmi, 111. His death was the result of in- 
flammatory rheumatism. 

134 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

SAMUEL DICKOVER (1826-1883) 

This man of God had a very eventful hfe, which ended as 
tragically as it was eventful. Born Feb, 3, 1826, of humble par- 
entage, on a farm near Cambridge City, Indiana, the 5th of 17 
children, he fared all the hardships of those early days. His 
school privileges were very limited, yet fair, compared with the 
times in which he lived. He made use of every opportunity for 
intellectual advantage that was presented him, and his achieve- 
ments were marvelous. 

HIS CONVERSION AND CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

His parents were staunch members of the United Brethren 
Church, and, as such, knew the grace of God. However, when 
but 16 years of age, Samuel attended a camp-meeting conducted 
by Chr. Augenstein, one of our Evangelical ministers, which 
camp-meeting was held on John Dill's farm, near his home, and 
it was here that he came under deep conviction of sin and was 
converted. He was baptized and united with our church, where- 
upon his parents also transferred their membership to our church. 

Immediately he became very active in the work of the Lord, 
and it was not very long until he heard the voice of God calling 
him to the work of preaching. Having a dislike for farm life, 
he followed his natural bent and learned a trade. While working 
at his trade, he gave himself to the study of the Scriptures, and 
even at times, while at his work, the Sacred Book lay open before 
him. Thus he acquired a fund of knowledge that stood him in 
good stead in the years to follow. At the age of 20, he abandoned 
his vocation and turned wholly to preaching the Word. 

HIS WORK IN THE MINISTRY 

The Illinois Conference gave him license to preach, June, 
1846, and sent him to the Des Plaines Circuit. His first year was 
one of success and blessing, and laid the foundation for a useful 
career. In 1847 he served DeKalb Mission in Indiana; in 1848, 
Elkhart Circuit; in 1849, Mt. Carmel Circuit. In all these places 
he worked with visible results. In 1850 he was elected to the 
office of a Presiding Elder, in which office he continued for the 
greater part of his remaining ministry. 

At the organization of the Indiana Conference, in 1852, he 
became a charter member, and one of the first Presiding Elders. 
In 1857 he resigned his office, and returned to the Illinois Confer- 
ence, whereupon he assumed a local relation, and moved to Iowa. 
However, he served Green Castle Mission during the winter 

135 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

months of this year, and at Conference thne entered the active 
service again. He v^as stationed on Naperville Circuit, and won 
great success. In this one year he had 150 conversions and many 
accessions. This was phenomenal for this circuit. In 1860, he 
was again elected Presiding Elder, in which capacity he served 
three years. In 1863 he served Spring Creek Circuit, in 1864 
again elected Presiding Elder, in which office he remained until 
his resignation in 1870. For two years he served St. John's Church 
in Chicago. In 1873-75, 1877, he was appointed special financial 
agent for the Institute at Naperville, in which office he acquitted 
himself very nobly. The other fields that he served were: Naper- 
ville Station, 1876; Des Plaines Station, 1878-9; Sheffield Mis- 
sion, 1879-0; Twelfth St. Station, 1880-1, when he was again 
elected Presiding Elder, in which office he laid down his life. 

As a man. Brother Dickover was an earnest, devout Chris- 
tian. He possessed a great and winning personality, a conserva- 
tive spirit, and an unusual capacity for hard work. He was gifted 
in many ways, which gifts proved a great asset to him in his 
great work for the Master. He did not hide his talent in a nap- 
kin, but put it to use in the King's business, and gained other tal- 
ents. He was possessed of good executive ability ; in cerem.onies he 
was a master. As a preacher he was sound and biblical, a power 
in the pulpit, a great winner of souls. He also was accomplished 
in song, and had the ability to lead others. He was highly hon- 
ored among his brethren, who keenly felt his loss. 

He was honored with many offices. A Presiding Elder for 
nearly 20 years ; six times a delegate to General Conference ; Con- 
ference Treasurer a number of times ; a member of the Board of 
Publication, and also of the Board of Missions. 

HIS HOME LIFE 

In 1852, Brother Dickover found a life companion in Elenora 
•Fisher, who became a true helpmeet to him. Their home life was 
one of great blessedness, and as a father he was greatly con- 
cerned for the welfare of his family. Nine children were given 
to them, and these were reared with great fidelity and earnestness. 
Even in his death his only concern was for his "dear wife'" and 
children. He longed that they might be converted, one and all, 
and be able to meet him in yonder world. 

HIS DECEASE AND BURIAL 

His death was tragic. On Friday, November 16th, 1883, 
about noon. Brother Dickover and Ludwig Gruner were riding on 

136 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

a C. B. 0. passenger train near Otter Creek Bridge, Ottawa, Illi- 
nois. While stopped on the treacherous bend that lies in this 
place, in order to await the removal of a stalled sand train, they 
were run into by a fast freight, which demolished the rear pas- 
senger coach, killing all but 4 or 5 of the 15 passengers. Among 
them were Dickover and Gruner. Fully ten minutes elapsed be- 
fore anyone had the heart to extricate them from the debris. 
Brother Gruner \vas the first to be liberated, and he pleaded with 
them that they would rescue his Presiding Elder, When Dickover 
was finally freed, it was found that he was fearfully scalded, 
bruised, crushed and lacerated. Death was inevitable. He was 
hastened to the home of Rev, Strickfaden, our missionary in Ot- 
owa, where every possible thing was done to alleviate his fearful 
sufi'erings. His end came very soon, even before he could see his 
wife, from whom he parted so reluctantly. He gave repeated 
assurance of his going home to God, and amidst untold physical 
tortures, but inward peace, took his leave to a world where suffer- 
ing and death are no more. 

The obsequies were held Tuesday, Nov. 20th, Friends and 
ministers gathered from all parts of the district to show their last 
respect to him whom they loved as a brother. Bishop R, Dubs 
preached the sermon. Bishop Esher gave a eulogy of his life and 
work. Brother Augenstein officiated at the grave. Interment was 
made at Naperville, 111. 

He died in the work and gained a well-earned reward as a 
servant of the Cross of Christ. 



EDMUND CHASPER EWALD (1870-1911) 

Edmund was the son of Lutheran parents, and was born near 
Bremen, Ind., Nov. 24th, 1870, His young days were spent upon 
the farm, attending public school during the winter months. When 
of age, he worked in a saw-mill, close by his home. In the spring of 
1894, he attended a United Brethren revival at Bremen, and was 
" born again," uniting with the Evangelical Church, of which his 
mother had become a member. He ascribed great praise to his 
mother for her Christian influence, and the training she gave him, 
often saying, " My conversion was due to her earnest prayers, and 
all that I am, I owe to her and to the grace of God." 

He became a very active worker in the church, and soon heard 
God's call to preach the Gospel. He naturally shrank back from this 
sort of a life, being timid and having but a limited education. 
But, after it was clear to him that God really wanted him in His 

137 




EDMUND CHASPER EWALD 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

vineyard, he yielded. He had a re- 
markable dream that gave him great 
encouragement in his call. He 
dreamed one night that he was out 
on a large body of water in a boat, 
sitting idly by, while all around him 
there were people in the water strug- 
gling and reaching out their hands 
toward him, and calling him to help 
them into the boat. This dream made 
him feel that God had a special work 
for him to do. At this time he was 
working at a creamery. He gave no- 
tice of his intentions, gave up his 
work, and went to North-Western 
College. Here he put in nearly six 
years of hard study, graduating from 
the Evangelical Seminary, and if his health had not been impaired, 
he would have also graduated from the college in another year. 

HIS MINISTRY 

He came home, and received his license and was assigned 
by the Indiana Conference in 1902 to San Pierre, where he re- 
mained for three years. In 1905 he was assigned to Terre Haute, 
Indiana, where he served five years. In 1910, he was sent to Peru 
and nearly completed the year when the call of God was heard, 
appointing him to higher service. In each place he had souls for 
his hire. His preaching was practical. Scriptural, unctuous, bring- 
ing forth fruit unto eternal life. His sermons were well prepared 
and ably delivered. He was above the average in sermonizing. 
He also was a frequent contributor to the Evayigelical Messenger. 
While yet in the very prime of his life, unexpectedly he passed 
away at Peru, Indiana, March 8th, 1911. He was recovering from 
a severe siege of typhoid fever, when an unlooked-for relapse 
overtook him, and he went to his reward. He left behind him a 
young widow, a Clara Berger, of Bremen, whom he married in 
1902. His body was interred in the cemetery at Bremen, Indiana. 



FRED M. FINKBEINER (1827-1904) 

Fred Finkbeiner was born, Rudersoll, Wuerttemberg, Germany, 
April 28th, 1827. His father was a sawyer by trade. When three years 
old his parents immigrated to America, settling in Hagerstown,Md. 

138 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

In '36 they moved to Marshall, 111., and were among the first set- 
tlers here. Fred never had much schooling, and as his parents 
were poor, they often only had corn-bread with molasses to eat. 
There were twelve children, of which Fred was the oldest, and, 
consequently, he had to help make a living for all, clearing away 
timber, splitting rails, building fences, and making and hauling 
saw-logs. His parents were Lutherans, who carefully reared 
their children in this faith, and Fred was duly confirmed. When 
G. G. Platz, a pioneer preacher of the Evangelical Association, came 
to this place, his parents attended his services and were led to 
repentance. They then united with the Evangelical Association, 
becoming charter members of the Zion society of Marshall, and 
helped to build the first church of our denomination in this country. 

At the age of 12 years, Fred, with his brother Christian, 
went to a camp-meeting, held near his home, in 1839, with the 
avowed purpose of throwing stones upon the people in the meet- 
ing; but the mighty preaching of the Gospel by these men of 
God gripped them, and they were brought to their knees at the 
altar. After a mighty struggle, resulting in a glorious victory, 
they united with the Evangelical Association. Fred rapidly de- 
veloped in his newly found life, and was elected as class-leader, 
and later on as exhorter. He revealed proficiency in these offices, 
and was recommended by his class and licensed as a probationer 
in '59. He traveled as assistant on Marshall Circuit one or two 
years, but thereafter remained in the local relation until 1878, 
when he again began active work in the South Indiana Confer- 
ence. He served Lancaster, '78 to '80 ; Tabor, '80 to '84 ; Camp 
Creek and other fields to 1893, when the South Indiana Conference 
Avas reincorporated with the mother Conference, he served three 
years more. In all 20 years of work. He built the Emmanuel 
Church on the Camp Creek Circuit. He had worked on it for 40 
days when a nail flew into his eye and destroyed its sight. 

His preaching was earnest and unctuous. He became greatly 
enthused by the support his wife would give him, while in his 
discourse. She would endorse his statements with "Amen, praise 
the Lord." This encouraged him and fired his soul. He fearlessly 
denounced sin wherever he found it, and urged holy living and full 
salvation upon the people. His fruits remain unto this day. Three 
young men were converted under his labors, who later entered the 
ministry, namely, I. H. Griesemer, of the Indiana Conference, O. 
L. Markman, now of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Rev. 
Landis, of the Free Methodist Church. 

After the death of his first wife, Sarah Oakes, he was mar- 

139 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



ried a second time to Barbara Beck, who proved a great help to 
him, and who, with seven children, also survived him. His end 
came May 25, 1904, at Marshall, and his burial was in the Big 
Creek Cemetery of the Marshall Circuit. Rev. J, Mundorf offi- 
ciated. 



HENRY L. FISHER (1828-1880) 

Rev. H. L. Fisher first saw the light of the w^orld near Lebanon, 
Lebanon Co., Pa., March 18, 1828. His parents lived on a farm, and, 
early in the history of the Evangelical Association, became con- 
verted and united with the church. They were very pious Chris- 
tians. Their home was made a delightful stopping place for many 

a weary traveling minister of the 
Evangelical Association. In such 
a Christian atmosphere and relig- 
ious environments the person of 
this sketch was nurtured into 
manhood. 

He says in his own day book 
concerning his childhood training: 
"I was soon taught what I had to 
do to be saved. In my twelfth year 
I was convicted of sin and felt a 
strong desire to become a Chris- 
tian ; but I did not yield. These 
feelings continued until my six- 
teenth year, when, to a certain de- 
gree, the feelings left me until my 
twenty-first year, when, under the 
labors of Rev. W. Meier, Jan. 17, 
1849, I was gloriously saved." At 
once the minister and the class- 
leader put him to religious work. 
Already in the first year of his conversion he was elected exhorter, 
which meant vastly more in those days than now. He soon filled 
many appointments for the ministers with general satisfaction. 
His geniality and sociability greatly fitted him to gain access to 
the people's hearts and win their confidence. 

In 1849 he entered the matrimonial life with Angeline Schnei- 
der and lived one year with her on the farm of his parents. Their 
matrimonial life continued happy for thirty-one years v/hen death 
separated them. His wife was first converted to God and united 

140 




HENRY L. FISHER 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

with the Evangehcal Association, At first he was opposed to her 
conversion, but soon thereafter, by the wooings of the Holy Spirit, 
he became convicted of the error of his way, and yielded. 

The leading men in the church soon saw the possibilities and 
natural talents of a preacher in him, before he himself could see it 
or could consider himself worthy to enter the ministry. Being 
constantly urged to enter the Gospel ministry, gave him a great 
struggle. He said: ''Many times I felt like giving up the fight, 
sometimes being tempted even to renounce Christianity." He was 
sure of the high calling, but felt himself too unworthy for such an 
important work. Rev. Clewell, who was then his pastor, at one 
time said to him, "You always see something worthy and good 
in others, but not in yourself." But finally, Jan. 1, 1857, he yielded 
to the call, and under Rev. F. Krecker, who was then Presiding 
Elder of Lebanon District, and Rev. J. Adams and Rev. F. Lehr, 
pastors, his recommendation was gotten out, and in February, 
1857, he was licensed as local preacher at the East Pennsylvania 
Conference, which was held in the First Church of the Evangel'- 
cal Association in the city of New York. Bishop Joseph Long pre- 
sided and Solomon Neitz was the secretary. 

He served his class as exhorter until he was licensed as local 
preacher, and in this latter capacity he continued while he was 
still farming, not yet fully realizing that he was competent to 
enter the regular ministry. On Sundays, and often during the 
week, he would be called on to go out and fill appointments an-i 
help in revival meetings. In April, 1861, he moved with his fam- 
ily to Peru, Ind., where he lived one year. Then he moved on a 
farm near Waupecong, Miami Co., Ind., where he remained only 
a short time, when the call to enter the active ministry became so 
strong and intense that he concluded to resist no longer, and in 
1863 he entered the active ministry in the Indiana Conference, 
and was assigned to Waupecong charge. Waupecong was a lit- 
tle burg near the present Zion appointment of Bunker Hill Circuit. 

He did very eflncient and faithful work in the Indiana and 
South Indiana Conferences as follows : Waupecong, Miami Co., 
Ind., in 1863, and was ordained deacon ; Mt. Carmel, Wabash Co., 
111., 1864; Evansville, Ind., 1865-66 (on first date he was ordained 
elder) ; Huntingburg, Ind., 1867-68; Warrington Circuit, now El- 
berfeld, Ind., 1869-70. In 1871 he was elected Presiding Elder 
and assigned to the Elkhart District, He served one year, and 
then resigned on account of being necessitated to frequently preach 
in the English language, in which he felt he could not exercise. 
His friends said of him that "he was very modest and greatly 

141 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

underrated his talents, especially in the English language." The 
Conference earnestly protested against his resignation, believing 
that he was fitted for the place and sufficiently qualified in the 
English language to continue in the office. But he insisted that 
the Conference should accept his resignation, which the Confer- 
ence reluctantly did. He served Evansville Mission again in 1872- 
3, and Indianapolis in 1874. At the Conference session held in 
1875 he was again elected as Presiding Elder and was stationed 
on Evansville District. In 1876 at the Conference session held in 
Bremen, Marshall Co., Ind., when the Indiana Conference was 
divided by order of the General Conference, held in October, 1875, 
Evansville and Olney Districts were detached from the Indiana 
Conference, and the two districts constituted the South Indiana 
Conference. He cast his lot with this newly formed Conference, 
and remained Presiding Elder of Evansville District, which he 
served very acceptably and satisfactorily until 1879, when he was 
re-elected and assigned to Olney District, and served very eflfi- 
ciently until his demise, which occurred June 22, 1880. 

He preached his last sermon June 13, 1880, when he held his 
last quarterly meeting on Sandoval Mission in Illinois, near St. 
Louis, Mo. His text was, "One thing I know, that whereas T was 
blind, now I see" (John 9: 25). At this time he still seemed to 
enjoy excellent health as usual, but Monday, after his arrival at 
home in Olney, 111., he began complaining of not feeling well. 
Neither he nor those around him realized any particular danger 
until Sunday, June 20, when appendicitis developed so seriously 
that it was soon seen that his life was in peril. The illness put 
an end to his useful life. His active earthly career closed sud- 
denly to the great surprise of all. His genial spirit took its flight 
to the celestial abode, there to resume his newly assigned work 
in a more exalted sphere and with better perfection. 

Brother Fisher was a very useful and exceptionally active 
and wide-awake member of the Evangelical Association for thirty 
years. He served about six years as exhorter in Pennsylvania, 
six years as local preacher in Pennsylvania and Indiana, and sev- 
enteen years as itinerant preacher, nearly seven years of the lat- 
ter period as Presiding Elder. He also represented the Confer- 
ence in 1875 as one of the delegates to General Conference, which 
was held in Allentown, Pa. This is evidence that he was held in 
high esteem by his brethren and had their confidence and good 
will. Physically he was a well-proportioned man of about 200 
pounds, giving him a commanding appearance, which added great- 
ly to his pulpit eff'orts. His poise was erect and pleasing; his 

142 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

voice strong- and clear. His friends say, that "he often became 
very eloquent and oratorical in his preaching." He would not 
allow himself to become excited or be carried off by excitement 
in the congregations. He wholly trusted in God. His demeanor 
in and out of the pulpit was unassuming and humble ; as servant 
of the Lord and to his flock he was faithful. He firmly defended 
the doctrine of Christ's atonement. He was thoroughly conse- 
crated to God and the church and to his calling. He was a man 
of a strong characteristic faith and exemplified it in his daily 
ministrations. His noble character had the peculiarity of under- 
rating his abilities in comparison with those of his brethren ; but 
this really only added in making his life and character shine forth 
more brightly and effectively. Thus it may well be said that 
Brother Fisher was both a model Christian and preacher of the 
Gospel. 

The funeral service was conducted in our Olney Church on 
Wednesday, June 23, and his interment took place in the Olney 
Cemetery. Eleven ministerial brethren were present at his fu- 
neral service and participated as a last act of love and respect 
for their departed brother. 



HARRY W. FISHER (1861-1892) 

Harry, son of Isaac and Katherin Fisher, was born in Tus- 
carawas Co., Ohio, Sept. 14, 1861, and departed this life near 
Kokomo, Ind., March 3, 1892. He spent his early days at the 
place of his birth. In '74, his father and family moved to Howard 
County, Indiana, to a farm, 8 miles north-east of Kokomo, near 
the Zion Evangelical Church, where he grew to manhood. 

In '76, he was converted to God, under the labors of A. J. 
Troyer, and then united with the Evangelical Church. He at once 
took an active interest in the work of the church, and by his 
faithfulness soon won the confidence of the people, both in and 
out of the church. Perceiving the call of God to preach, he en- 
tered North-Western College and the Union Biblical Institute, 
and while here he acquitted himself so ably that he was elected 
president of the college Young Men's Christian Association for 
one year. After having finished his course in the Union Biblical 
Institute in June, 1889, he entered upon the active work of the 
Christian ministry within the bounds of the Indiana Conference. 
He was sent to Cleveland, Tenn., as missionary, where the Con- 
ference had taken up a mission that had been begun by Rev. D. 

143 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

J. Pontius with some of our church people from the North. Here 
he served with success one year. In 1890 he was assigned to 
Huntington, Ind,, where his health began to fail, and he was 
obliged to resign his work, which he did with great reluctance, 
in order to try a milder climate for recuperation. His affliction 
came on by a very severe cold he contracted at the Conference ses- 
sion, held at Portland, Ind., April, 1890. Coming up from the balmy 
atmosphere of Cleveland, Tenn., the weather being cold and damp 
at Portland, he was thoroughly chilled ; adding greatly to his dis- 
comfort, he was obliged to sleep up-stairs, far away from the fire, 
in a damp room, and with insufficient covering. 

He went to Texas for recovery, so that he soon might take up 
the work again. For a while he seemed to be improving, and had 
hope. But in the winter of 1892, having had several relapses, rap- 
idly growing weaker, he was obliged to cease all mental and physi- 
cal labors, and on Feb. 9 he came home to his parents to spend 
his few remaining days. Why this young servant should so soon 
be called from labor to reward remains a mystery. By his death 
his parents and the Conference lost a true and loyal son. About 
two weeks before his death he said to his brother. Rev. A. S., 
"that he had given up to die, that he longed to go home to rest, 
for this world had no more charms for hi]!!." The funeral was 
held by S. H. Baumgartner, assisted by the pastor, C. F. W. 
Hansing. His body was laid to rest in the Zion Cemetery. He 
was survived by his parents, two brothers and two sisters. 




JOSEPH FISHER 



JOSEPH FISHER (1821-1892) 

Joseph Fisher was born of good par- 
entage. May the 27th, 1821, York Co., Pa. 
His ancestors were of substantial German 
stock, early moving to this country and 
settling in Maryland and Pennsylvania. 
His father, George, was a highly respected 
farmer, and for many years a justice of 
the peace. He was a careful churchman, 
rearing his family in the tenets of his 
faith, but, for many years, was a stranger 
to experimental religion, and an opponent 
to all forms of emotionalism. Later in life 
he, hovv^ever, experienced vital religion, 
and found the Lord precious to his soul. 

Joseph was the youngest of the sons, 
144 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

and when his older brothers left the home, he had the care of the 
farm. He was of a jovial disposition, buoyant in spirit, reveling in 
fun and frolic. 

In 1844 he found a noble wife in Lydia Grove, who for fifty 
years was the anchor and balance of his life. It was not until 
after his marriage that he was deeply convicted of his sinfulness 
and converted to God. It was in a plain school-house, way back 
in Carrol Co., Maryland, that he heard the Spirit's call. Soma 
preachers of the United Brethren Church were holding a meet- 
ing in this place, and he was among those that found the Lord. 
In his old age he gladly testified thus to this great event: "The 
Lord wonderfully and powerfully saved me, about 12 o'clock at 
night. I was able to shout 'Glory to God!' " Soon thereafter he 
united with the United Brethren Church, and it was not long 
until it was manifest to all that the Lord was calling him to 
special service. One year after his conversion he was licensed 
as an exhorter, and 2 years later as a preacher on probation. In 
the spring of 1850 he removed to Clarkesville, Hamilton Co., 
Ind., and in the same year, with his brother-in-law, M. W. Stef- 
fey, united with the Evangelical Association at E. Germantown, 
Indiana. 

He was received into the itinerancy in June of the same year 
by the Illinois Conference, and stationed on the Miami Mission. 
This mission field extended into the counties of Miami, Wabash, 
Fulton and Huntington, the nearest appointment being fifty miles 
from his home. The roads were mostly all bad, the membership 
small, and the salary smaller still. For weeks at a time he was 
away from his family, who very seldom knew just where he might 
be in his travels and labors. His first year's work resulted in 18 
conversions and 20 accessions. 

During the year it was his privilege to make the acquaintance 
of Bishop Seybert, and also that of J. J. Esher, of Elkhart Cir- 
cuit. These great men of God he met at a camp-meeting, con- 
cerning which he writes: "I had traveled on horseback several 
days, often stopping to dismount for prayer, my mind being mucn 
occupied and somewhat agitated with what I may meet, being 
a total stranger to the brethren. About noon on the third day, 
all dusty and weary, I arrived, introduced myself, and, to my 
glad surprise, was cordially received. Presently I was informed 
that I was to preach that same night. I can assure you that 1 
was greatly perturbed, knowing that much depended upon the 
first impression that I would make. I went to God in earnest 
prayer, and sought divine help. Nor was my seeking in vain, 

145 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

for when the appointed time arrived, I took for my text Ps. 128 : 
1, 2, and was not preaching very long until I felt the nearness 
of divine presence. Bishop Seybert responded in his quaint, ear- 
nest way, which was peculiar to himself when he enjoyed a ser- 
mon. I felt as though the Lord had given me victory, and now 
I was in full accord with the brethren." 

In June, 1851, he was sent to Elkhart Circuit, under the 
charge of Rev. Ragatz. He moved his family to Elkhart, Indiana. 
This year, he says, "was a very dull year to him," nothing seemed 
to be accomplished. The next year, when the Indiana Conference 
was formed, he united with it, and was again assigned to Elkhart 
Circuit, with B. Ruh as assistant. It was a great year for this 
servant of God ; the work grew in every direction. Souls were 
saved by the score, and 63 united with the church. The circuit 
was extended over eight counties in Indiana and into southern 
Michigan. In 1854 he was appointed to Mt. Carmel Circuit, which 
meant a 300-mile move per wagon. But in this and the next 
year he had nearly forty conversions, and a greater number of 
accessions. The next year brought him to Evansville Mission, 
which was one of his hardest years. He had but five conversions, 
and a salary so small that he had to borrow money to complete 
the year. While here he built a parsonage, doing most of the 
work with his own hands. Again he was returned to Mt. Carmel, 
and in 15 months 106 united with the church. July 5th, 1856, he 
held the first Evangelical class-meeting for our people in West 
Salem ; Nov. 4th, he delivered the first German sermon in Enter- 
prise, 111. ; on Dec. 20th, he conducted the first prayer-meeting in 
Carmi. At Carmi a powerful revival occurred, which resulted 
in 40 conversions and as many accessions. A church building was 
soon in progress, which was dedicated August 16 of this same 
year. At this same meeting J. M. Gomer and M. Speck were con- 
verted and united with the church. Persecution soon followed, 
the enemies pelting and injuring our people with stones. In 1857- 
58 he was stationed on South Bend Circuit, during which time 
the Portage Prairie and Bainbridge Churches were built, and 
129 souls were saved and united with the church. 

The next eight years Brother Fisher served as Presiding El- 
der, serving on the St. Joseph and Whitewater Districts. His 
work as a Presiding Elder was highly efficient and greatly appre- 
ciated. Together with M. Mayer, he organized the first Evangeli- 
cal society in Louisville, Ky. In 1867-68 he served Elkhart, Ger- 
man Mission, having 104 conversions, and building the brick 
church on Division St. For three years he remained in a local re- 

146 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

lation, but in the spring of 1872 filled a vacancy on the Elkhart 
Circuit. In 1874-5 he served Watchtower society in Elkhart, 
which society was formed largely by his previous eff'orts and in- 
spiration. He then served the following fields: Decatur, Ft. 
Wayne, Indianapolis, Ft. Wayne, Huntington, Kendallville, and, 
lastly, Logansport. At Indianapolis and Kendallville he built 
churches and parsonages. 

Several times he had the honor of being delegate to General 
Conference, and also of being a member of the Executive Commit- 
tee of Plainfield College. For eleven years he was vice-president 
of the Indiana Conference. 

AN APPRECIATION 

Brother Fisher was a strong man physically, mentally and 
spiritually. Gifted with a robust body, a fine military bearing, 
he had a commanding appearance that proved a great asset in his 
work. Nor were his mental faculties in arrears. Denied a large 
school training, he, nevertheless, was a studious and energetic 
searcher after truth. His scope of knowledge was such that he 
could command any situation in which he found himself. As a 
pulpiteer, he was practical, exhortative and altogether biblical. 
His sonorous voice greatly aided his vivid portrayals of sin, judg- 
ment to come and heaven to enjoy, and in his earliest years was 
regarded as the most successful revivalist in the Conference. San- 
guine, buoyant, the youngest man in the Conference for his age, he 
was naturally sociable and a warm friend to those whom he trusted. 
At times he did have his discouraging moments, but they were 
only for a season. Positive in his convictions, yet he was ever 
open to reason and persuasion. 

He was patriotic almost to a fault. During the Civil War 
his sympathies would run away with him, and he would give vent 
to his beliefs, often to his own detriment. No one ever doubted 
his sincerity. His greatest joy was that his two sons followed 
him into the ministry and preached his same Christ. 

OBSEQUIES 

He retired at the close of his 4th year in Logansport, and re- 
mained in that city. Here his wife died in December, 1894. And 
here he also married Martha Bortner in 1895. In the spring of 
1897 his last illness began, which brought with it great sufferings. 
On August 2, 1897, his release came, and triumphantly he as- 
cended on high. 

147 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Rev. D. S. Oakes, his spiritual son, conducted the funeral 
services, assisted by other ministers of the Conference. Inter- 
ment was made in the Logansport Cemetery. 



GERHART H. FRANZEN (1818-1881) 

The subject of this sketch was born in Schale, Teaklenburg, 
Prussia, December 29, 1818, and came to this country in 1835. 
He had been carefully reared in the Reformed Church, but, com- 
ing under the preaching of Evangelical preachers in Des Plaines, 
111., 1840, was converted to God. Here he also united with the 
Evangelical Association. June, 1851, he was licensed by the Illi- 
nois Conference as a preacher on probation, assigning him at the 
same time with John Riegel to Naperville Circuit. 

At the organization of the Indiana Conference he became a 
charter member and was stationed with Peter Burgener to Du- 
bois Circuit in southern Indiana. After one year he asked for his 
credentials in order that he might return to the Illinois Confer- 
ence. Here he served a few charges, and, as far as can be ascer- 
tained, were : Waukesha, Milwaukee and Cedar River Mission. 
After this he evidently located, as his name does not again occur 
in the minutes of the Illinois Conference. It is said of him that 
he was in a local relation 26 years, seldom preached after locat- 
ing, never married, and although he had much of this world's 
goods, he did not enjoy the grace of giving. 

He died, suddenly, August 1, 1881, in Rock Run, Stephenson 
Co., Illinois, where his body also has been interred. 



GEORGE W. FREEHAFER (1843-1910) 

George W. Freehafer was born Dec. 11, 1843, at Wooster, 
Ohio, and, by accident, was ushered into eternity, Oct. 1, 1910, at 
Dayton, Ohio. His body was laid away in the beautiful Woodland 
Cemetery at Dayton. George was converted to God when but 12 
years old, at the Leininger class of the Evangelical Association, 
near Huntington, Ind., and united with the church. His parents 
were converted at the same time. He received his recommendation 
to preach from his class at South Bend, in '71, and in September 
received his license from the Indiana Conference. He was or- 
dained as deacon and received into the itinerancy, '74, and as elder 
in '76. 

He was descended from Germans, who settled early in Penn- 

148 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



sylvania, but George's parents moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, near 
Wooster, when he was 20 years old. Of him it is said "that he had 
a good German education." When 
he was 21 years old he started to 
school with an English spelling- 
book. Here he also married and 
lived for some years. Later they 
moved into Wooster. In 1847 they 
started on their journey to near 
Huntington, Ind., in a covered 
wagon, with an ox-team, until 
they reached a place called Mau- 
mee, on the canal. Here his fa- 
ther placed his family onto a ca- 
nal-boat, while the ox-team 
hauled the household goods. At 
the conclusion of this canal trip, 
George came near losing his life 
by an accident he never forgot. 
While his uncle David lifted him 
from the boat to the dock he al- 
most dropped him into the canal. 
His father had previouslv 
bought 80 acres of heavy timber- George w. freehafer 

land, 4 miles north-east of Huntington, without buildings. When 
he arrived here with his family, a spot was cleared away of its 
timber, and a crude log cabin was put up in post-haste. The floor 
was made of flat slabs, split from logs, which made it quite un- 
even. Later, a hewed log house, with sawed floor boards, was put 
up. In this humble manner George grew to manhood, doing hard 
physical work, with but little to inspire his fertile mind. 




HIS ACTIVITIES AND MARRIAGE 

At the age of 18 he took to carpenter work, and followed it 
for three years. At 21 years he entered the Roanoke Seminary 
of the United Brethren Church, remaining one year. After this 
he taught school for several winters, and during the summer 
worked at his trade. Later he took a course of "book-keeping" at 
"Eastman National Business College" in Chicago, 111. From here 
he returned home, but soon after, in 1866, he went to South Bend, 
Ind., and found work at carpentering. Rev. M. W. Steff"ey was 
then pastor of our Evangelical Church here, and he became a 
member of his church. He also formed the acquaintance of his 

149 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

daughter Sarah, which ended in a wedding, April 23, 1867. Being 
ambitious, they purchased a lot here, and built a small house on 
it, which became the birthplace of their children. During this 
time he was engaged as cabinet-maker, with the exception of one 
year, when he worked in the "Studebaker Bros. Wagon Works." 

HIS MINISTERIAL LIFE 

After his conversion he took a deep interest in religious work 
and gradually developed into an active and influential Christian. 
In course of time the call to preach came. He obeyed and conse- 
crated himself to God for this work, and was licensed to preach 
in 1871. He served the following fields: St, Mary's Circuit, 1872- 
4; Noblesville, 1874-5; Kendallville, 1875-7; Waterloo, 1877-9. On 
the Kendallville charge, at Dutch class, near Wolcottville, Ind., 
he took a severe cold, which lodged in his throat, and which he 
could not overcome. His voice finally failed him entirely, so he 
could not talk above a whisper. This brought on a "nervous break- 
down." 

LOCATED, DUE TO BODILY INFIRMITIES 

In April, 1879, he located and moved back to South Bend, but 
on Aug. 9 of this year he moved with his family to York, Neb., 
for his health. Here he began farming and carpentering. His 
general health began improving. But owing to the great droughts 
and high winds that were so prevalent, he returned with his fam- 
ily to South Bend, having first stopped in Chicago for six months. 
Four years were spent in South Bend, while he was engaged in meat 
business. This venture resulted in a financial failure. 

In 1884 he located in Indianapolis, where they resided 13 
years. He engaged as traveling salesman for the "Indianapolis 
Chair Co." This work took him all over the eastern and south- 
eastern part of the United States, from the northern Atlantic 
Ocean down to the Gulf of Mexico to New Orleans. In this work 
he was very successful from the start, earning enough that he 
could pay every dollar of his indebtedness contracted in his meat 
business. By the economic co-operation of his wife, denying herself 
of many luxuries, they accumulated enough money to have kept 
them to old age if it had so been the Lord's will. 

When the panic of 1893 was on he was out of work, and then 
found a position as clerk in the court-house of Marion Co., Ind. 
After two years, by a change of administration, he was again out 
of employment. The "Kimmel and Freehafer Real Estate" busi- 
ness having grown to such an extent, that his son could no longer 
collect the rents. in the "Rental Department," and look after other 

150 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

duties, he was employed as collector of rents, and moved to Day- 
ton in 1898, at which work he accidentally met his death. 

Brother Freehafer had a very genial disposition, a striking 
personality, and possessed sterling qualities. This made him 
friends everywhere in the ministry, in his travels, and wherever 
he lived. "He was one of the best known men on the streets of 
Dayton, having ridden the bicycle for nearly 13 years all over the 
town. He lived a pure life inwardly and outwardly. He never 
used the filthy weed, never drank intoxicating liquors," As a minis- 
ter and pastor he was conscientious, faithful and earnest. His 
work was crowned with success. "His judgment was good, he 
worked zealously, and always had a noble aim and spirit in his 
religious work, and was honest in his business affairs. He was a 
man of God." His preaching was simple, practical and full 
of divine unction, which made him a successful soul-winner. A 
fellow church-member said of him: "He was a man true to his 
convictions, afi:able in disposition, pure in his public and private 
life, and was an earnest and devoted Christian." 



GEO. FREDERICK (1831-1905) 

Brother Fredrick was born in Stark Co., Ohio, April 1, 1831, 
and died near Hudson, Ind., April 30, 1905. He was converted 
to God and joined the Evangelical Association in 1851, and lived 
in the faith until his death. He farmed near Hudson until his 
age obliged him to quit. Then he moved to town. He filled various 
ofl^ces in the local church, called "County Line," in an acceptable 
way. In 1865 he was licensed to preach the Gospel of Christ. He 
never traveled, but rendered valuable service in his younger days 
at home and adjoining fields. Later he was also ordained as dea- 
con. He M^as an inspiration to the ministers of his society, and 
shared his home and comforts with them. He was quite pro- 
nounced in his convictions, and quite strenuously adhered to them. 
He was a respected neighbor and citizen. He was survived by his 
wife, 8 sons and 4 daughters. D. Martz conducted the funeral 
services, assisted by W. H. Freshley. His body is interred in the 
County Line Cemetery, west of Hudson. 



DAVID GARL (1825-1863) 

Brother Garl was born July 29, 1825, and died March 25, 
1863. in Elkhart Co., Ind. He lies buried in the Smith (Salem 
Church) Cemetery, north-west of Elkhart city. He was survived 

151 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

by his wife and five children, two having preceded him in death. 
He had a common school education, and was reared on a farm. 
In his 17th year he was converted to God and united with the 
Evangelical Association. It is said of him "that he lived a truly 
pious life." He spent his last days by praising the grace of God. 
One of his last words was, "0 Jesus, come soon and take me 
home." He was licensed to preach by the Indiana Conference in 
1856. He served two years in the active work, and four as local 
preacher, and preached according to his ability. He was never 
ordained. 



CHRISTIAN GLAUS (1818-1875) 

Canton of Berne, Switzerland, gave birth to the subject of 
this writing, June 11, 1818. From his earliest youth. Brother 
Glaus experienced unusual hardships and trials. His school op- 
portunities were very limited, and at best he was not a very 
bright student. So manual labor seemed the wisest thing for him 
to pursue, and early he became a shepherd of sheep and goats. 
Arriving at manhood, he immigrated to America, and settled in 
Marion Co., Ohio, where he came under the influence of Evangeli- 
cal preaching and was converted to God. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND HIS MINISTRY 

Shortly after his conversion he deeply realized a clear call 
from God to preach the Gospel, to which he finally yielded. He 
gave himself wholly to the Lord for the work of ministering. He 
was duly licensed by the Ohio Conference in 1843, and received 
into the itinerancy. He was assigned to Wayne Circuit, 
with Peter Goetz as preacher-in-charge, and to the surprise of 
all, did effective work. He applied himself and plodded to suc- 
cess. Some folks who knew him in the fatherland, when they 
heard that he was preaching, said, "What does this little goat- 
shepherd know, what can he do?" But when they heard him they 
marvelled at his wisdom, his fluency of speech, and began to look 
up to him, and use only the highest terms in speaking of him. 

At the organization of the Illinois Conference he became a charter 
member and successively and successfully served the following cir- 
cuits : Rock River, St. Mary's, Elkhart, Whitewater, Mt, Carmel, Du- 
bois, These he served with great blessing, however hindered quite 
often by bodily infirmities. He was slender in build and weak in con- 
stitution, yet withal possessing a willing spirit and anxious to 
serve in the hard places. For two years he found it necessary to 
locate, 

152 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

At the formation of the Indiana Conference he took up work 
again, and was elected to the office of Presiding Elder, which office 
he filled with credit for three years. He found it necessary to re- 
sign, however, at the end of this time, on account of extreme 
deafness, which was contracted by much exposure to the elements 
in his travels. 

He served the most important fields in the Indiana Confer- 
ence with credit and efl"ectiveness. As a minister and pastor, he 
was active, aggressive and a true shepherd of souls. As a preacher 
he was unctuous, instructive and helpful. In character he was 
unimpeachable. In disposition, aff'able, unassuming, somewhat re- 
tiring, universally beloved and esteemed. In labor he was untir- 
ing, always earnest, conscientious, punctual and orderly. In con- 
versation he was thoughtful, opposed to flattery, bombast or af- 
fectation. He hated levity and talebearing, and recommended a 
better example to those who gave themselves to criticising the 
faults of others. 

He served the following fields : Wabash Circuit, 1852-5 ; Elk- 
hart Circuit, 1855-6; Whitewater, 1856-7; Miami Circuit, 1857-9; 
Newville Circuit, 1859-61; Huntingburg, 1861-3; Warrenton (now 
Elberfeld), 1863-5; Mt. Carmel, 1865-6; Olney, 1866-8; South 
Bend, 1868-70; Yellow River Circuit, 1870-2; Bremen Circuit, 
1872-3; Newville, 1873-5. 

The last two years of his active ministry were filled with in- 
tense sufi'erings. He was advised on all hands to locate and take 
things a little easier until he could get relief, but he worked on 
until the end. A lingering illness brought his labors to a close, 
and, after much sufi'ering, he ascended on high, amid the triumphs 
of faith, Dec. 12, 1885, at Marion, Ohio. His body was interred 
at Marion, Ohio. 

His good wife, who was a Heverling, whom he married in 
June, 1858, and nine children that were given to them, survived 
him. 



HENRY COCKER (1870-1915) 

Brother Gocker was born July 12, 1870, in Colmar, Alsace, 
and peacefully passed away in Elberfeld, Ind., Feb. 19, 1915. At 
this place his body was also interred. He is survived by his wife, 
2 sons and 3 daughters, and parents, one brother and two sisters. 
Two children preceded him in death. He came to America with 
his parents in 1881. They settled first in Chicago, 111.; after one 

153 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




year they moved to Kankakee, 111., where they abode three years, 
and then removed to Enterprise, 111. 

HIS CONVERSION AND EDUCATION 

His mother was converted in Chicago. Henry and his father 
bowed at the altar at the same time, in Enterprise, under the 

labors of C. Wessling and Jacob 
Mode, when they both found 
light and forgiveness. They both 
joined the Evangelical Associa- 
tion at Enterprise. 

His educational advantages 
were limited. He obtained a good 
start in Alsace in Germany. In 
Chicago he attended the public 
school, and for the next few years 
he was allowed to go to school in 
the winter when the weather was 
unfit to work on the farm. In 
1892 he attended the winter term 
at North-Western College, work- 
ing his way through as best he 
could, and borrowed the money 
to pay the rest of his expenses. At 
this time he tried very hard to plan a way of getting a better educa- 
tion, but all plans failed. He had no resources, and so he was com- 
pelled to go back to farming. But he believed the Lord knew what 
was best for him, and so submitted to the inevitable. He often said, 
"I could not depend on my education, but when the Lord gave me 
grace I could preach, and when he did not, I failed." 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND MINISTERIAL WORK 

After his conversion, Henry took an active part in the Lord's 
work. He made commendable progress, and soon felt it his duty 
to preach the Gospel of Christ. His parents having moved 15 
miles from Enterprise, he could not often go to the prayer-meet- 
ings. So he started a cottage prayer-meeting where they lived, and 
served as class-leader. He also started a Sunday-school at their 
school-house, and had the superintendency of it. He felt he must 
be about his Master's business, and tried to make himself useful 
wherever he had an opportunity. He found great joy in this work. 
There seems not to have been any doubt in his mind but that God 
called him to preach. He yielded at once. He had a passion for 

154 



HENRY COCKER 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

souls. His life evidenced it clearly. He often said while in the 
ministry, ''There is nothing I would rather do than to stand be- 
hind the sacred desk and preach the Gospel," The pulpit was his 
throne. 

The Enterprise class recommended him to Conference to give 
him license to preach, which was granted by the Conference, held 
in Dayton, O., April, 1893. He was then assigned to Phillipsburg 
charge, and served it with success. In April, 1896, he was sent 
to West Salem and had 65 conversions, and was returned in 1897. 
In 1898 he was assigned to Grayville, 111., and served it four years 
with blessed results. In 1902 he was sent to Elberfeld, where he 
served 3 years. Here his health began to fail, and, therefore, lo- 
cated one year, and moved on a farm near Elberfeld. In 1906 
he resumed the Gospel work, and again had West Salem assigned to 
him. which he served 2 years. His health again gave way, and he 
located and moved back on a farm near Elberfeld in April, 1908. 
Here he remained farming, and, later, mining in a coal mine until 
November, 1911, when he accepted a call to Davenport, Washing- 
ton Conference. The change of climate was beneficial to his health 
for a while, but in course of time again failed him. He served 
Davenport until Dec. 27, 1914, when he preached his last sermon. 
He preached 14 years in the Indiana Conference, and 3 years 
in the Washington Conference, and was 4 years in the local re- 
lation. 

He was very conscientious in his work, faithfully filled his 
appointments regardless of bad weather. He sacrificed his life 
for Christ's sake. He led several hundred souls to Christ, and 
there was not a year that he failed to win some. Even yet, in No- 
vember and December, 1914, he held a very successful revival on his 
charge, and won several for Christ. His preaching was simple, but 
biblical, earnest, unctuous, and often overpowering. He was also of 
a jovial disposition, which he controlled properly, and made it a 
blessing to young and old. He often had great victory in his soul, 
especially, in revival meetings, which found expression in shouts 
and hallelujahs. 

He was married to Elizabeth Dassel, of Elberfeld, Ind., June 
11, 1896, C. F, Hansing, Presiding Elder, tying the nuptial knot. 
Seven children were born to them. His ailment was of a nervous 
affection, which developed into a complication of diseases. His 
health became seriously impaired in October, 1914, when the doc- 
tor gave him little hope of recovery. In January, 1915, he decided 
to take his family back to Elberfeld, and arrived here Jan. 30, and 
on Feb. 18, about midnight, his spirit departed. He made his own 

155 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

funeral arrangements shortly before death. He was conscious to 
the end. His last words were, "I am going home to glory. Hal- 
lelujah!" He suffered much in his ailments, but bore it patiently 
and uncomplainingly. In the spring of 1914 he w^as elected Branch 
Young People's Alliance president of Eastern Washington Con- 
ference. He was ordained as deacon in 1895, and as elder in 1897. 
On Feb. 22 funeral services were held by his Presiding Elder, J. J. 
Wise, assisted by G. A. Stierle, M. L. Scheidler and G. F. Winter. 



PETER GOETZ (1807-1882) 

This servant of God was born Feb. 27, 1807, in Ross Co., Ohio, 
and closed his earthly life near West Liberty, Iowa, Feb. 18, 1882. 
Peter Goetz, sometimes written Gates, was a pioneer preacher in 
the Ohio, Illinois and the Indiana Conferences. For some twenty- 
five years he bore the brunt of pioneer life as an itinerant, under- 
going all manner of hardships for the Gospel of Christ. He was 
a faithful servant of the Cross, energetically forging ahead with 
the message of salvation. Many new fields were opened by his 
ministry, and of him it can be truly said, "One sows and another 
reaps." "They have labored, and we have entered into their labor." 

The following fields, all of them circuits, were served by h^'m : 
Wayne, 1843; Greenville, 1844; Pickaway, 1845; Lancaster, 
1846-7; Miami, 1848; St. Mary's, 1849; Fulton, 1851. Then he 
became a charter member of the Indiana Conference, serving 
Whitewater, 1852 ; Fulton, 1853 ; Elkhart, 1854 ; St. Mary's, 1855 ; 
Miami, 1856. In 1857, he located on account of physical infirmi- 
ties, and some years prior to his death moved to West Liberty, 
Iowa, spending the declining days of his life on his beautiful farm. 
Here with his family he had many peaceful hours, rejoicing in the 
Cj'oodness of the Lord. 

His end was peace. The Gospel which he preached, where- 
with he sought to comfort many hearts, comforted his own heart 
in the hours of his transition. After three days of illness he an- 
swered the call of his Lord, "Come thou, good and faithful serv- 
ant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over 
many things; enter thou into the joy of the Lord." Rev. W. 
Swain conducted the obsequies, and his body was laid to rest in 
the West Liberty Cemetery, Iowa. 

156 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

JOHN MICHAEL GOMER (1833-1891) 

Brother Gomer was born, Adelshofer, Baden, Germany, May 
the 3rd, 1833, of parentage that was highly esteemed in Lutheran 
Church circles. He was given a creditable Christian training, 
which had its fruitage in the life of John. Bishop Esher said of 
him that he was talented, and knew how to use his abilities to 
the very best advantage for the glory of God and good of man. 
From youth he feared the Lord, and had a keen sense of righteous- 
ness. He possessed a deeply pious nature, and as a young man 
was modest and unpretentious. He lacked but one thing — a true, 
experimental knowledge of salvation. 

HIS CONVERSION 

In 1853 he immigrated to America, and located at Carmi, 111., 
where he successfully followed the cooper trade. He also came 
under the influence of the preaching of the Evangelical Association 
at this place, and discovered the way of true salvation. Deep con- 
viction for sin seized him, and through the power of the Holy Spir- 
it he was born again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of 
Jesus Christ from the dead. He now united with the Evangelical 
Association. This was in the year 1853. From the very hour of 
his conversion Brother Gomer was an active participant of the 
work of the church in this place and wherever he went. "He en- 
tirely consecrated himself to God, and served and worshiped God 
with his whole mind, heart, soul and strength." 

In course of time both he and the society, of which he was a 
member, perceived his divine call to the work of the ministry, 
and, upon application, the class gladly recommended him to the 
Annual Conference for license. In 1859 he received his license 
as preacher on probation. 

BISHOP ESHER'S eulogy OF HIS WORK 

"In the early part of his ministry he was honored with mostly 
mission fields of labor in Michigan and Indiana, because of his 
faithfulness to enjoined duties, not for one moment shunning any 
kind of labor, or trial, or deprivation. He forged ahead in the Master's 
work, which was recognized by the Annual Conference, and, in 
due time, honored him with the most prominent fields. Every- 
where he faithfully discharged his duties, was pious, energetic, 
devoted to his call, and was a warm, sympathetic shepherd of his 
flocks. He was a living example to believers in word, in conversa- 
tion, in charity, in faith, in purity and in godliness." 

157 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Again the Bishop said, "His preaching was biblical, plain, 
instructive and effectual. He was untiring in his work, a fine 
disciplinarian, a safe counsellor, possessing excellent foresight 
and good judgment." From the results he achieved in his Mas- 
ter's vineyard, it is evident that he took a deep interest in the wel- 
fare of the sinner, the saved, the young and the old, the poor and 
the rich. Therefore God graciously owned and blessed his efforts 
in the conversion of many souls, and in the establishing of the be- 
lievers." Wherever he labored he was acknowledged as a pious 
and devoted servant of God, and had the undisturbed confidence 
of his brethren, in his congregations, in the ministry, and from 
such as are without." Where he had once been, he was always 
welcome to return, and nowhere did he leave a stain. 

THE FIELDS HE SERVED 

In the Indiana Conference: Fulton, '59; Berrien, '60; Cal- 
houn, '61-62; South Bend Circuit, '63; Indianapolis, 1st, '64; 
Dayton, 1st, '65-66. In '67, he was appointed collector for the 
building of churches. Mt. Carmel, '68 ; Ft. Wayne, '69-70 ; Indian- 
apolis Mission, '71-72; South Bend Station, '73-4-5; Laporte, '76- 
77 ; Dayton, 1st, '79-79. On all of these fields he won souls for Christ. 

In 1880, he was sent as missionary to Galveston, Texas, and 
founded and established the work of our church there. He spent 
11 years in this great State with untiring faithfulness, proved 
himself a wise, painstaking steward, and an excellent manager of 
pioneer work. Success to a marked degree crowned his efforts. 
His labors were very abundant, and time would fail us to chronicle 
them all. Until his decease he was in the harness, and the Presid- 
ing Elder of the Texas Conference. He died July 24th at Carmi, 
111., where he also is buried. Bishop Esher conducted the services. 
He was survived by his wife. 



CARL F. W. HANSING (1852-1895) 

Synopsis: Born, Julietta, Marion Co., Ind., March 25th, 1852. 
Died March 15th, 1895, on his farm on Bunker Hill Circuit. Bur- 
ied in the Zion Church Cemetery of the Bunker Hill Circuit. Con- 
verted at the age of 17 years, united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion at Julietta. Licensed by the Indiana Conference, Sept., 1875. 
Ordained as deacon, 1885, and as elder, 1887. 

Carl was the fourth of ten children. His parents. Christian 
and Sophia, were poor, but industrious and economic, and under 
the blessing of God succeeded in getting a home. Under such cir- 

158 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



cumstances Carl had the opportunity of tasting the joys and sor- 
rows of rural life. He enjoyed but limited school privileges, but 
made every use of the opportunities as they presented themselves 
to him. 

Under the preaching of the 
Gospel by our ministers at Ju- 
lietta the Holy Spirit enlight- 
ened him, and led him to repent- 
ance and salvation. He was 
made a new man in Christ Je- 
sus, and lived a very pious life, 
devoting himself to God and the 
church. He stood high in the 
esteem and confidence of the 
members of his class. In a few 
years the Lord came a second 
time to the Hansing home, and, 
laying His hand this time upon 
Carl, as He had previously done 
to his brother Charles, said, "Go 
thou also and labor in my vine- 
yard." "But," says his brother 
Charles, "being rather modest 
and reserved, it required some 
earnest solicitation to persuade 
him to enter the field that was 
white unto harvest." Finally he 
yielded to the call, and he was licensed in the year 1875 as a 
preacher on probation. 

HIS MINISTRY 

Under the charge of B. Uphaus, in 1875, he was sent to 
Greenville Circuit, and labored successfully. During the year he 
contracted a severe cold, which, with other circumstances, neces- 
sitated his return home. Owing to poor accommodations, many 
a young minister failed in health, and prematurely had to retire 
from the active work. In the year following he suflficiently re- 
gained his health and entered into marriage with Elizabeth Arns- 
man, of Huntington, Indiana, in 1877, and for five or six years 
lived on a little farm near Julietta. A part of this time was spent 
in Evansville, and in 1883 he moved to Elkhart, Indiana. In 
April, 1884, he re-entered the ministry and was assigned to Me- 
daryville, which circuit he served very acceptably and with bless- 

159 




CARL F. W. HANSING 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ing for three years. P>om 1887-90 he served Bremen Circuit, 
and again led many souls to Christ. In 1890-1 he served Ft. 
Wayne, and in 1891-3 he labored on Bunker Hill Circuit. Here 
this noble warrior laid down the warfare, and, receiving his dis- 
charge from the King Himself, entered his heavenly rest. Illness, 
that had previously shattered his health, relentlessly seized him 
and ended his earthly career, March 15th, 1895. Just before he 
passed away he had his brother Charles read 2 Timothy 4 : 6-8, 
and then said, "This is my exact experience." 

Carl was thoroughly conscientious in all his work. His walk 
was upright, his preaching earnest, full of fire, unctuous, plain 
and practical. His appeals to the unsaved were strong and often 
eloquent. He gave himself to the church and to his fellow-men as 
a sacrifice. His life is held in blessed remembrance by all who 
knew him. He was genial in his social relation with the people. 
All self-seeking was averse to him. He walked humbly before 
God and man. 

He was survived by his wife and children. Revs. Peter 
Speicher and A. J. Troyer officiated at his funeral. In him the 
Indiana Conference lost a worthy member and an efficient pastor, 
and the family an indulgent father. "Many will rise in the king- 
dom of glory and call him blessed." 



ADAM HARTZLER (1836-1878) 

This servant of God was born Oct. 21, 1836, at Lancaster Co., 
Pa., and at the age of 11 years, in '47, he came, with his parents, 
to New Lisbon, Indiana. Here he grew to manhood, enjoying the 
ordinary school privileges, and afterward learning the black- 
smith trade. Physically, he was a large man, having a height of 
about 6 ft. 4 or 5 inches, and a weight of over 300 pounds, and 
although corpulent, was yet very active and energetic. 

He was converted at New Lisbon, Indiana, under the labors 
of Ed. Evans, in 1862, and united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. He at once became active in the work of the church, and it 
was not long before a clear call came to him from the Lord, ap- 
pointing him to service as a minister. He realized that God had 
other work for him to do, than to hammer out iron and weld it, 
and that he was to go forth with the hammer of Divine Truth, 
and weld immortal souls to God. His class at New Lisbon 
also realized this and recommended him to the Indiana Con- 
ference, from which he also received license in 1867. 
After he had his license to preach he did not forthwith enter the 

160 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

active ministry. But in Sept., 1865, he was received into the itin- 
erancy, and was assigned to Huntington Mission. In 1866-7 he 
served Defiance Circuit. They lived in Brunnersburg, 2 miles 
north-west of Defiance, in a two-story house. The lower part was 
used for a church, and the upper part for the parsonage. They 
had many hardships on this work. The people were poor, and, 
hence, the support was meager. He was gone much of the time, 
the circuit extending over a number of counties. Mrs. Hartzler 
said, "They were very limited in eatables, often only had a lit- 
tle cornmeal, no meat of any kind, no potatoes and other neces- 
saries. No money to buy anything, children sick with fever, and 
no medicine from a doctor, only home remedies. She had to stay 
up night after night to watch over her sick children, while he was 
away, not knowing where he was, or when he would return. And 
the town was often full of drunken men, carousing around, mak- 
ing the night hideous. In 1867-9 he served St. Mary's Circuit 
with the parsonage, seven miles out in the country, % of a mile 
from church, practically surrounded with timber. In 1869-72 he 
again served Defiance Circuit, and had splendid success. In 1872- 
5 to Benton Circuit, in Elkhart Co., Ind. In 1875-7 Twin Lake 
was given him, and 1877-8 Nobleville Circuit, which was his last 
charge. His last sermon he preached was in the neighborhood 
of Pendleton, Ind., on Sunday, Oct. 13, his text being 2 Cor. 6: 
14-18. He was called from labor to reward in the midst of his 
usefulness and maturity of life. M. Krueger said of him in his 
biography : "That he had not the splendid talents that some of the 
other men had, but, nevertheless, he was successful in his work 
for the Lord." He died at his post. His sermons were practical, 
expository, biblical, and, at times, profound. A number of the 
ministerial brethren assisted in the funeral services. 



JOHN M. HAUG (1836-1904) 

Brother Haug was born at Gingen, Wurttemberg, Germany, 
Nov. 15th, 1836, and departed Sept. 18, 1904, at Indianapolis, Ind. 
He grew to manhood in the land of his nativity, and while he 
enjoyed but limited school privileges, he made use of every oppor- 
tunity. Studying diligently by candle-light, he mastered the Ger- 
man language, and exhibited considerable literary ability. Later 
in life, after coming to America, he studied the English language, 
and achieved good success therein, although it was tinged to a 
great degree with the German accent. His parents were religious 

161 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




JOHN M. HAUG 



people, members of the Lutheran Church, His grandmother, es- 
pecially, seems to have been deeply pious, and was greatly con- 
cerned about John's future life. She had much to do with his be- 
coming a preacher, and looked up- 
on the calling of a minister as high 
and holy. When John was old 
enough to study the Catechism, he 
was put through a catechetical 
course, and, being confirmed, be- 
came a member of the Lutheran 
Church. 

Having completed his school- 
ing, he was apprenticed to a tailor, 
with whom he worked three years. 
While Rev. John Nicolai, mis- 
sionary of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation in Germany, was carrying 
on his labors in the fatherland, 
John was brought to genuine re- 
pentance and true faith. After 
his conversion, which took place 
in 1855, he united with the Evan- 
gelical Association in Germany, and soon began preaching to his 
countrymen. This greatly delighted the grandmother, who thus 
had her wish fulfilled, and it was soon known to all that the call 
of the Lord was upon him. He was then duly licensed by the 
Germany Conference and received into the itinerancy. Being 
blessed with natural abilities, a striking personality, a good phys- 
ique, a pleasing voice and a well-poised, emotional nature, to- 
gether with the divine call, he was well fitted to the work of the 
ministry. 

HIS WORK IN AMERICA 

In 1856, as a young man of 20, he immigrated to America, 
settling at Cleveland, Ohio, where he did his first preaching in 
this country. In '59, he was stationed upon Ann Arbor Circuit, 
in Michigan, in '60 to Dearborn Mission, in '61 to N. Michigan 
Mission, to which he was returned in '62. The greater part of his 
ministry was spent in the Michigan Conference, but in '91 he 
came to the Indiana Conference, of which he remained an active 
member until his decease. 

He served the following fields: In the Michigan Conference, 
Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Dearborn, Owosso, Detroit First Church, 
then as Presiding Elder for 12 years. After this he was again 

162 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

assigned to First Church, Detroit, and then to Howell. In the 
Indiana Conference he served: Indianapolis 1st Church '91 and 
'92, Presiding Elder on the Indianapolis District four years, and 
in '97 he was appointed to Dayton First Church, which he served 
for four years. He was then appointed as collector for the Con- 
ference church debt, which amounted to $15,000, in which he 
proved successful. In 1902, he was again elected as Presiding El- 
der, and assigned to Louisville District, which he served 31/2 years, 
until his demise, which occurred, Sept. 18, 1904. 

AN APPRECIATION 

Brother Haug was a successful soul-winner from the begin- 
ning, and had the favor of the people wherever he went. He pos- 
sessed considerable executive ability, which gave him a place of 
leadership among his brethren, and duly promoted him to offices 
in the Conference, such as Presiding Elder, delegate to General 
Conference, etc. As a preacher he was Scriptural, effective, and 
frequently quite eloquent. He faithfully proclaimed the Word of 
Truth, and insisted on the need of heart purity and full salvation. 
He himself professed to enjoy a higher state of grace, but never 
claimed to be beyond faults. Once, in a sermon, he was heard to 
say, "that there are many who seek entire sanctification, who 
ought first to seek a genuine reconversion, or regeneration." "That 
from a lack of knowledge and good judgment, not a few give evi- 
dence of the fact that, while the heart may be right, the head 
may be woefully wrong." 

Aside from being a good preacher, he was also quite a good 
leader in song, and was able to sing the Gospel of comfort and sal- 
vation into the hearts of sorrowing and penitent souls. He loved 
to preach better than do anything else, and sometimes allowed the 
temporal matters to suffer ; evangelistic services, especially, appealed 
to him. In all his work he was extremely impatient over delay. 
"The King's business demands haste," and nothing dare hinder it. 
He kept his heart tender by preaching such sermons that call forth 
the sympathetic nature. He was gifted with a social talent that is 
rarely surpassed, and he was never so at home as when in a crowd. 
He was not a hobbyist, but, being broad in his views, had a warm 
place for all real Christians. He was devoted to the church, loved 
her jealously, defended her and ever sought to advance her inter- 
ests to the best of his ability. He had an energetic spirit and an 
untiring disposition. Fr. Schweitzer, a life-long friend, preached 
the funeral sermon in German, and J. H. Breish, pastor of our 
First Church in Indianapolis, in English. Other brethren that 

163 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

were present were Geo. Roederer, his predecessor in ofRce on 
Louisville District ; D. S. Oakes and C. F. Hansing, Presiding El- 
ders of Indianapolis and Elkhart Districts, respectively, assisted. 
Other ministers were present to show their last respects. His 
body was laid to rest in the beautiful Crown Hill Cemetery at 
Indianapolis. 

His first year's salary on Ann Arbor charge, Mich., '59, was 
only $85.00, and yet he laid up some of it, although he was mar- 
ried. Brother Haug and his family had to forego many pleasures 
and comforts in their early life. Instead of using butter upon 
their bread, they used lard. They passed through many hard- 
ships and disappointments. He was married twice, first to Mary 
Regina Hanz, who died at Owosso, Mich., May 10, '80, and sec- 
ond to Christina Hartbeck in '81, who died in 1900 at Dayton, O. 
He was survived by 7 children. 

D. S. Oakes wrote this memorial of him : 

A year ago one sat in our midst; 
A forward place he occupied with us; 
His face, his name, familiar to us all. 
His presence we revered, his countenance we esteemed, 
Today he is not here, his presence greatly missed, 
His spirit's flown unto that bourne 
From whence no one can e'er return. 
Weary and worn with many toils, 
. He's gone to share the victor's spoils. 
'Tis John M. Haug has passed away 
From clouds and shades to endless day. 
He hailed from Swabia's wine-clad hills. 
In early youth, in native land. 
He gave his heart to God, becoming thus 
A timely trophy to the eflforts given 
By our missionaries in 
The German fatherland. 
Coming to our shores, we find him first 
Joining in Ohio's faithful ranks 
Of heralds of the Cross, with Walz and Zinser, 
Strawman, Kopf, Spreng, Koch and Stull, 
And many others of like spirit, 
All worthy of our greatest merit. 
Next we find him in Michigan 
With Meek, and Coply, Fuchs and Miller, 
Hettler, Klump, and Frye, and Keeler, 

164 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Toiling hard, long and successful. 

In 1891 to us he came. 

Since then he's firmly stood with us, 

Gone in and out, has come and went, 

Shared in our trials and our joys. 

Of the positions he has held, 

Of work performed, of places filled, 

I need not speak, they're known to all. 

A year ago with him I shared 

A good and hospitable home. 

His languid step, his pallid face 

I noted well, and though 

His spirit still within him burned, 

I knew time's sands were running low. 

Yet, after all, when the Great Harvester 

Sent forth his shaft and cut him down, 

It was a shock to me, to all. 

My intercourse with him was much, 

And intimate ; I knew him well. 

A garland of forget-me-nots 

I'd lay upon his grave and say: 

My brother, colleague, fare thee well. 



SAMUEL HEISS (1803-1883) 

This pioneer was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., July 14, 1893. 
He was converted to God under the labors of Bishop John Sey- 
bert, and united with the Evangelical Association. Yielding to 
the call of God to preach, the Western Conference licensed him, 
and for many years he served as a traveling preacher in that Con- 
ference. Afterw^ard he served in a local relation in the Indiana 
Conference. It was said of him that he was highly endowed for 
the work of a preacher, which office he pursued to the conversion 
of many souls, and to the building up of the body of Christ. With 
untiring zeal he labored ; methodical in his work, pleasing in his 
delivery, and always effective. 

He was married the first time to Maria Anna Rohland, Sept. 
20, 1825, who died in '49, leaving him with 9 children. Several 
years later he was married to Susanna Wies. In '54 he moved to 
Indiana, and at least during the latter part of his life he resided 
in Elkhart, Ind. Here he found a warm place in the hearts of our 

165 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

people., and often in great self-denial brought them the Word of 
Life. Like as a father, he nurtured the society. 

Rather unexpectedly he passed away Feb. 9, 1883, and was 
laid to rest in the Elkhart Cemetery. He was survived by his 
second wife and 6 children. C. F. Hansing and M. Krueger offi- 
ciated at the obsequies. 



CHRISTIAN HEIM (1824-1907) 

This man of God was born in Wylderswyl, Switzerland, Dec. 
18, 1824, died of old age in Olney, 111., May 30, 1907, and was 
buried in the Olney Cemetery. He was converted in the latter 
part of 1853, and his wife, Jan. 1, 1854, and both united with the 
Evangelical Association. He was recommended by the Grand 
Prairie class, near Olney, and licensed by the Quarterly Confer- 
ence (year not given), and was received into the itinerancy, Sept., 
1864, by the Indiana Conference. He was ordained deacon in 
1864, and as elder in 1866. He was married to Mary Brawand 
in 1853. She was a native of Grindelwald, Interlaken, Switzer- 
land. She was blind for many years, and died Aug. 7, 1895. One 
daughter was born to them. He w^as married again, March 16, 
1899, to Elizabeth Sharp, who survived him. 

Brother Heim said of his father John and his mother Mar- 
garet (nee Loos), "that they gave me a Christian education as 
far as they had light in the religion of the Reformed Church." He 
was baptized as an infant, and as he grew older his parents in- 
structed him in prayers consisting of rhymes. These he commit- 
ted to memory. They also made it a duty for him to read the Bi- 
ble. He was sent to school, where he received further religious 
instructions, and had to memorize the Heidelberg Catechism, Gel- 
lert's hymns. Scripture verses, and studied much Bible history. 
When he was 16 years old he was confirmed. He says, "At this 
time a deep inclination to and need of salvation was realized. But 
the matter rested here, as I was not urged on to fulfil my vow 
taken at confirmation. Instead, as was the custom of my native 
country, I became careless, godless, and, like the rest, I surren- 
dered myself to the desires and pleasures of the world, and in- 
dulged in these things as much as any one." 

On October 11, 1850, he, with others, immigrated to Amer- 
ica. He had, however, a desire to locate with a pious class of peo- 
ple. He says in his own brief sketch of himself, "God so over- 

166 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ruled that I landed in Olney, 111., where I soon became acquainted 
with Zwohlen, Weis, Muehlman and others, who were then mem- 
bers of the Grand Prairie class of the Evangelical Association 
near Olney. By their prayers and godly conduct deep impressions 
were made upon my mind. It pleased the Lord to thoroughly con- 
vince me of the need of my conversion to God." But he hesitated 
yet for some time. He had a great struggle as a young man to 
tear away from worldly associates. But finally he made a firm 
resolve, "that if it is God's will to accept him, he would seek sal- 
vation and serve the Lord the rest of his days." After three 
months, passing through deep penitence, it pleased the Lord to 
pardon his sins, and he united with the Evangelical Church. This 
occurred under the labors of Chr. Glaus. 

From now on Heim sought to serve the Lord earnestly. He 
prayed much in secret, in the home, in the timber, and in public 
with God's people, exercising his faith and strength in the Lord. 
He also prayed much for his unconverted friends. He felt an al- 
most irresistible constraint to preach Christ to them. Realizing 
his great inability, he prayed much to God to excuse him from so 
great a responsibility. He kept this divine call to himself, fear- 
ing it might be a temptation of Satan. But, finally, he promised 
submission to the Lord to preach, if he would pave the way there- 
to, without he saying anything about it to anyone. Here his diary 
stops, but he evidently learned clearly that the Lord revealed this 
to the people, for they voted him his recommendation to the Gos- 
pel ministry. 

Prior to entering the ministry, he followed the shoe-maker's 
trade, and again when he located he did mostly cobbling work. 
It was said of him that he was a true, honest and upright man, 
Scriptural, unctuous and unassuming in his preaching, consist- 
ent in his life and profession, insisting on a definite change of 
heart, forgiveness of sin, and an assured adoption into the family 
of God, and on the maintenance of a holy life. He was a liberal 
supporter of the Gospel. 

He served Clay County Mission, Sept., 1864-6; Yellow River, 
1866-8; Medaryviile, 1868-70; Greenville, 1870-1; West Salem, 
1871-3. Then he located, due to bodily infirmities. In 1876 he be- 
came a member of the South Indiana Conference, remaining in 
the local relation. He had considerable ability, and his labors 
were fruitful in leading souls to Christ, and in building up the 
church. M. W. Sunderman officiated at his funeral; others as- 
sisted. 

167 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

GEORGE A. HERTEL (1821-1873) 

This servant of God was born in Felderbach, Hessen-Darm- 
stadt, Germany, May 27, 1821, and died in Elkhart, Ind., July 12, 
1873. His body was interred in the Van Wert Cemetery. Under 
the preaching of Rev. G. Zinser, Stark Co., 0., he was converted 
to God and united with the Evangelical Association. He was rec- 
ommended to preach by the Mohr's (now Grand Victory) class, 
and was licensed as preacher on probation by the Indiana Confer- 
ence in '59. He was ordained as deacon in '61, and as elder in '64. 
His first marriage was with Miss Williman, who died before he 
entered the ministry. He was married the second time to Kath- 
erine Becker, who nobly stood by him in his arduous work and 
added much to his success as a soul-winner. 

HIS OCCUPATION AND CONVERSION 

When yet a young man he came from Germany and settled 
in Stark Co., 0. He learned the art of brewing and was engaged 
in it when he was brought under the m.ighty influence of the Gos- 
pel. The truth gripped him with such power and so thoroughly 
revealed the wickedness of his brewing business that he resolved 
to quit it at once. He was gloriously saved, and at once ordered 
his brother Adam to unhitch the horses from the beer wagon, 
saying that no more beer would be brewed. It appears that that, 
which was on hand, was allowed to perish. 

HIS EARLY CHRISTIAN LIFE 

He moved to near Van Wert, 0., where he purchased a farm 
and by industry and frugality succeeded in accumulating consid- 
erable property. He did not live here very long, until the preach- 
ers of the Evangelical Association searched for him, and were 
cordially received. He became a channel for the church, and pre- 
sented a way of access to the hearts and homes of the people in 
this community. Soon a goodly number of people were converted, 
a class was organized, and he was elected as its first class leader. 
This office he ably and faithfully filled until he entered the ministry. 

FIELDS HE SERVED AND CHARACTER OF HIS WORK 

From '59 to '61 he served Defiance, '61-63 DeKalb, '63-5 Van 
Wert, '65-7 South Bend Circuit, '67-9 Cincinnati, '69-71 Newville 
(now Linn Grove), '71 to July 12, '73, Elkhart, when he died of 
typhoid fever. Three weeks previous to his death he entered the 
pulpit, but could not preach on account of illness. He took to his 
bed, and when^ told of his serious condition, he replied, "Just as 

168 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

God wills it, so it will be alright with me." When he was dying 
he whispered, "I have fought a good fight." His body was interred 
at an old cemetery at Van Wert, O., and later on it was exhumed 
and reburied in the new Van Wert Cemetery. At Elkhart, his Presid- 
ing Elder, E. L. Kiplinger, preached in the English, and John 
Fuchs in the German. Other ministers being present, assisted in 
the services. It was said of him that in no case was he a misfit, 
or was there ever a mistake made in his appointments. 

The Conference recognized his ability and faithfulness and 
entrusted some of the best and most important fields to his care. 
He was an ideal pastor both in the city and country, going from 
house to house, both to members and strangers, teaching and en- 
couraging right living. With tears he often pleaded with people 
to come to church and serve the Lord. He also prayed with the 
people in their homes and took a keen interest in the children. 
His theme as a preacher was "Christ Crucified" ; his sermons 
were thoroughly evangelical, unctuous and effective. When he 
delivered his messages the people usually felt that "a man of God" 
was speaking to them. He fearlessly preached the truth, aiming, 
first of all, to win souls to Christ. 

In missionary work he was a leader and manifested a self- 
sacrificing spirit. His social nature helped him in his labors and 
enabled him to report a general increase in membership and giv- 
ing. He obtained a fair education in Germany, and, as a minis- 
ter, continued searching for the deep things of God, As a man 
he deported himself excellently, as a friend and brother he was 
cordial, true and open-hearted. He was a hater of sham. Physi- 
cally he was well built, in manners pleasing, in will strong and res- 
olute, in his undertakings successful. From a human point of 
view his life ended prematurely. 



ELI F. HOCHSTEDLER (1840-1914) 

Eli, son of Gabriel and Maria Hochstedler, was born in 
Holmes Co., 0., March 17, 1840, and died in Rochester, Ind., June 
13, 1914. His body lies in the Rochester Cemetery. On Easter 
morning, '63, at his home in Howard Co., Ind., he was converted 
to God under the labors of John Kauffman, In '70 his class rec- 
ommended him to Conference, and he was duly licensed to preach. 
He was ordained as deacon in Sept., '72, and as elder in '74, He 
was married to Emaline Lantz of near Kokomo, Ind., Aug. 1, 1862, 
and became the father of 6 children. His wife passed away at 

169 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Greenville, 0., while he served that work. A second time he was 
married to a Mrs. Mary Favorite of Winchester, and one son was 
born to them. 

His parents, Vv'ho were honest 
farmers, were natives of Pennsyl- 
vania, and moved to Holmes Co., 
0., in '54. Here Eli attended coun- 
try school. Later they moved to 
Howard Co., Ind., and soon there- 
after he attended college at Koko- 
mo, Ind, After this he farmed in 
the summer and taught school in 
the winter until he began to preach. 
When he came to Howard Co. there 
were no Sunday-schools in that dis- 
trict, because they were regarded 
as agencies of the devil. Social life 
was coarse, men were given to pro- 
fanity. Sabbath-desecration and de- 
bauchery. Such environment was 
not conducive to spiritual develop- 
ment. Moreover, the country was 
new, low and wet, and heavily tim- 
bered, requiring hard labor to render the soil tillable. When Rev. 
Kauffman was serving the Waupecong Mission he preached in this 
community, and Eli was awakened to his need of salvation. Previ- 
ously to this, while yet attending the college at Kokomo, he was 
greatly affected because his landlady prayed for him. After 11 
months of earnest seeking he found peace with God and united with 
the Evangelical Association at Zion (now Bunker Hill Circuit). 
He evinced zeal and courage in the Lord's cause. Later he obtained 
a distinct call of God to preach the Word, which became more ur- 
gent as he postponed its acceptance. His spirit grew restless, while 
pictures of waiting congregations would loom up before him, and 
finally, in the solitude of the woods, he vowed obedience to God. 
Zion class gave him his recommendation, and being licensed by the 
Indiana Conference, he at once entered the active work. 




ELI F. HOCHSTEDLER 



HIS MINISTRY AND RETIREMENT 

He served in the active work as follows : Elkhart Circuit, '70 ; 
DeKalb, '71; Vandalia, '72-3; Fulton, '74-5; Greenville, '76-78; 
Mishawaka, '79, after which he located. He was quite successful 
in winning souls for Christ. From his own diary we have these 

170 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

statements : " Had glorious meetings — souls at the altar — power- 
ful meeting and souls saved tonight." After he located he moved 
on a farm in St. Joe Co., Ind., west of the Smith's Church, which 
is in the north-west corner of Elkhart Co. After living there 15 
years he moved to Rochester, Ind., where he engaged in laundry 
work. Later he engaged in the feed store business, selling also 
coal and wood, until illness made it necessary for him to retire. 
His illness lasted 1 year, and although he greatly suffered, he bore 
his affliction with patience and resignation. He gave himself un- 
reservedly to the Lord and calmly awaited the summons from on 
high. 

His funeral was held from the Evangelical Church in Roches- 
ter, June 15, 1914. Rev. W. M. Baumgartner, his former pastor, 
officiated and was assisted by J. W. Metzner, P. E., J. H. Rilling, 
C. W. Spangler, George Pullman. He was survived by his second 
wife and several children. Brother Hochstedler was not an elo- 
quent preacher nor gifted in speech, but he lived a pious and un- 
assuming life, and was ever loyal and devoted to the Church. His 
preaching was plain, fearless, earnest, sincere, and mostly ex- 
hortative. As a man he was honest and faithful, companionable 
and deeply spiritual. He took great interest in the Sunday-school 
and Young People's Alliance. As long as health allowed he was a 
regular attendant at church services, and could be counted upon 
by his pastor. In his family he was indulgent and kind. 



REV. FREDERICK HOFFMAN (1822-1884) 

Frederick, brother of Rev. John HolTman, was born in Bavaria, 

Germany, Oct. 3, 1822, and departed this life in , 1884, 

near Royal Centre, Ind., where he is also buried. He was reared 
in the Lutheran Church. In the early part of his life his parents 
came to America, and settled in Holmes Co., O. Later he moved 
to Fulton Co., Ind., and was converted here in 1846, and united 
with the Evangelical Association. 

He was licensed to preach in Sept., 1860, the German class of 
Culver Circuit recommending him. He was never ordained and 
never entered the active itinerancy, nevertheless he traveled much, 
frequently 30 to 40 miles, to preach the Gospel. H gave 24 years 
to the church as local preacher. It was said of him, "That his 
work at revivals was effective and appreciated, that he was mighty 
in the Scripture. His sermons were systematic, plain, practical, 

171 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

exhortative and deeply spiritual." His labors were not in vain. 
He was sick three weeks, but was fully resigned to the will of God. 
He expressed himself as being "prepared to die." He chose his 
own funeral text from Isa. 60 : 20. He was survived by his wife 
and children, one of whom was the wife of Rev. L. Newman of 
the Indiana Conference, and the grandfather of Rev. Irvin Spen- 
cer, deceased. Rev. D, J, Pontius officiated at his funeral, assisted 
by H. E. Overmeyer and L. S. Fisher. 



GEORGE B. HOLDEMAN (1847-1889) 



Brother Holdeman first saw the light of this world, Wayne 
Co., Ohio, Sept, 4th, 1847, and received his second sight, the heav- 
enly, at Elkhart, Indiana, 1875, 
^ •'^-' ■' - "■'I during a revival conducted by Jo- 
^H^^ ^^ seph Fisher at Watchtower 

^ ^.^HHp^ Church. He at once united with 

^F jg^^^^^^ >^ ^]^g Evangelical Association, and 

^L I became an active and devoted 

^K J m a iHr I member. It was soon discovered 

^P :.^rm ^ ^Y\2,i the Lord had need of him in 

a larger sphere of service, and the 
Watchtower society recommended 
him to the Annual Conference of 
1884, which, in turn, licensed him 
as preacher on probation. Having 
had but meager school advantages, 
he hesitated in taking up active 
work at once, but when a vacancy 
occurred on Ft. Recovery Circuit, 
four months after Conference, he 
GEORGE B. HOLDEMAN accepted it, and served with great 

satisfaction. In '85 he was as- 
signed to E. Germantown; in '86-88 he served N, Webster; in 
'88-89, Logansport; '89 he was again assigned to Logansport, but 
he was not permitted to return to the people that were so greatly 
attached to him. A higher power appointed him to the celestial 
field. After Conference he, with his wife, went to Wakarusa to 
visit friends and relatives, and after spending a few days here, 
preaching four times, he was called to his reward. Ten days of 
indescribable suffering ended his career, D. S. Oakes said of him: 
"He was a very conscientious and pious man, earnest and faith- 

172 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ful in the discharge of his Christian and official duties ; he did not 
falter, nor did he become easily discouraged in his labors for God. 
He was punctual, reliable and effective ; his preaching was appro- 
priate, pointed and instructive. He made rapid progress in his 
preaching. He had the confidence and the esteem of the entire Con- 
ference. A worthy laborer was lost by his untimely death." His 
widow, a Mary C. Harrington, and four children survived him. 
Burial took place at Elkhart, Indiana. 



JACOB HUNTSINGER (1836-1909) 

Jacob was born near Hagerstown, Wayne Co., Indiana, Feb. 11, 
1836, where he also grew to manhood. He departed this life in 
Huntington Co., Indiana, in the triumphs of faith, Feb., 1909. He 
was small of stature, unique in his gifts, adapted for work among 
children. He was led to accept Christ as his personal Saviour in 
the spring of 1858, when he also united with the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation, remaining faithful and devoted until death. He never 
married. Soon after his conversion he felt called of God to preach 
the Gospel ; the New Lisbon class recommended him, and he was 
licensed by the Indiana Conference, Sept., '72. He was ordained 
deacon, '79. He never took a regular charge, but devoted his life 
and efforts for nearly 30 years to the children. He very appro- 
priately received the name, "The Children's Friend." His sole 
purpose was to befriend the children on the streets, in the 
homes, and frequently spoke to them in Sunday-school, and at 
Sunday-school conventions. He would entertain them with quaint 
illustrations of his own, ever bent on directing their minds and 
hearts to accept Jesus Christ early in life. He also endeavored to 
implant principles of temperance and virtue by his apt use of 
object-lessons. This work he did with simplicity and amiableness. 
He was a firm believer in child evangelism, and in his younger 
days did considerable good among the children. He generally had 
with him simple tracts for children, and would distribute them at 
Sunday-school and to children on the streets. His work was ex- 
tensively known in and out of the church. His kindly words will 
long be remembered by those who learned to know him in their 
childhood. In eternity many will rise and call him blessed for what 
he meant to them in their youth. The one theme that lay near his 
heart was Heaven. Though he lived a simple life, his influence was 
always for good, and the Lord had need of him. 

173 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

AUGUST IWAN (1840-1897) 

This herald of the Cross was born in Posen, Prussia, Aug. 
15th, 1840, and was reared in the Evangelical State Church, in 
which he was duly catechized and confirmed. With his parents, 
Heinrich and Caroline, he and his wife, an Augusta Schultz, came 
to America, 1875, and settled in South Bend, Ind. He followed the 
trade of a blacksmith, and labored in the "Studebaker Wagon Fac- 
tory" until he entered the ministry. He was very industrious and 
frugal, and highly esteemed by his fellow-workmen. It was while 
in South Bend that he began attending the services in the First 
Evangelical Church, and under the labors of Christian Glaus be- 
came awakened to his need of salvation, and was converted to 
God, '76. 

HIS DIVINE CALL AND MINISTRY IN THE INDIANA CONFERENCE 

About six months after his conversion he received clear evi- 
dence of a call to the ministry, and was ready to go forth and 
preach any time the church would send him. When J. M. Gomer 
asked him whether he did not realize a call of God to preach, he 
replied : "I am ready whenever God wants me to go." Brother 
Iwan, like many others, earned large wages, hence made a great 
financial sacrifice by going out as a herald of the Cross. His wife 
was not willing to go, realizing the privations of a minister's life, 
but she graciously yielded to the will of God. His educational priv- 
ileges in Prussia were those of the common schools. ''But," says 
E. J. Nitsche, "he was an earnest and faithful Bible student, a 
man with a great mind, possessing great will-power, backed by a 
forceful character. This made him a strong textual preacher." He 
served the following fields in the Indiana Conference: In '77-8, 
Logansport, where he had much opposition from a Lutheran 
pastor, who enticed him to a public debate on doctrinal points. 
Brother Iwan, being young in the work and inexperienced, was not 
a match for the occasion, and through this occurrence our work 
suffered a blow that almost paralyzed it in this place. In '79-80, 
Bunker Hill was given him; '81-82, Wanatah Circuit; '83, Medary- 
ville; '84, Laporte; '85, Wanatah; in '86-87, Elkhart, Division St. 
He was quite successful in soul-winning on these charges, and 
gained the confidence and esteem of the brethren and the offi- 
cers of the Board of Missions. 

HIS WORK IN TEXAS 

In '88 the Board of Missions assigned him to Galveston. Many 
of his friends were fearful of his going so far south, but he said : 

174 



LIP^E SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

"I go to Texas to work for the Lord and to die there." He served 
Galveston charge different times for a period of seven years, and 
San Antonio for three years, and as presiding elder of the South 
District for two years, serving Galveston with it. When the time 
came to hold what proved to be his last quarterly meeting in Tem- 
ple, Texas, being sick at the time, he was urged to stay at home, 
but he said: "I must go to Temple, and if I must go on one foot." 
His unexpected death was caused by a carbuncle under his right 
shoulder-blade. His last sermon was on Daniel 5: 25-28, preached 
just two weeks before he was buried. Only the brethren of his 
district could attend his funeral on Aug. 15th, 1897. Rev. Meier 
preached from Revelation 14: 13. Revs. Bunse, Chum, and 
Daeschner assisted. The remains were interred in the beautiful 
Lake View Cemetery at Galveston. This was a great and sore be- 
reavement for the family, and a great loss to the Conference. 

Rev. Daeschner of the Texas Conference wrote of him that he 
discharged the duties of the important office of a minister with 
fidelity and conscientiousness, without pretense or hypocrisy, that 
he did his work M'ith circumspection and devotion, to the edification 
of the saints and the salvation of sinners. The church entrusted 
him with important charges in both Conferences. His preaching 
was often eloquent and unctuous, Scriptural and practical, logical, 
edifying and effective. He was known as being systematic in all of 
his work, devoid of selfishness. He was virtuous and stood in inti- 
mate relation with his co-laborers. He regarded the ministry as 
a holy calling, and the ministers as ambassadors of Christ and 
stewards of the household of faith. 



CARLKALWITZ (1837-1902) 

Brother Kalwitz was born in Pruetzenwald, Germany, May 
20th, 1837. He was reared in the Lutheran Church, and came to 
America in '64, and settled in Laporte Co., Indiana. He was united 
in marriage with Augusta Bremer, '64, to whom were born 7 chil- 
dren. His vocation was that of farming. In 1864, under the labors 
of the preachers of the Evangelical Association, he was convinced 
of the errors of his life and deeply convicted of his sins. Yielding 
to the leadings of the Holy Spirit, he was converted to God, and 
united with the Evangelical Association at Zion, near Wanatah. 
He evinced ability to lead and instruct in God's Word. His class 
recommended him to the Indiana Conference for license, and in 
Sept., '67, the Conference granted him a probationer's license. He 

175 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

was ordained deacon in '97, and only served in the active minis- 
try one and one-half years on his home charge, preferring there- 
after to remain with his family. The remaining thirty-five years 
of his life he continued as a local preacher, and filled the office of a 
class-leader for many years. Brother Kalwitz had somewhat of a 
sensitive nature, and was set of will. Having been a class-leader 
for a long time, he asked to be released from this office, and at an 
election this was done accordingly. Afterwards he confessed to 
his presiding elder that he did not think that the class would release 
him, that he felt lost and feared that he could not work out his sal- 
vation unless he be reinstated. This shows that he loved the work 
as class-leader, and probably felt that he did wrong by asking for 
this release. He was clear and practical in his preaching. He died 
Feb. 23, 1902. J. H. Evans officiated at his funeral. J. M. Haug 
and J. W. Feller, his pastor, assisted. His body was interred in 
the Zion Cemetery, located near the Zion Church. 



JOHN KARSTETTER (1806-1879) 

This brother was born in 1806 and died at Elkhart, Indiana, 
1879. He was for many years a local preacher, held in the highest 
esteem, a liberal supporter of the Gospel, and true to the Evangeli- 
cal Association. He traveled several years with M. Krueger on the 
Elkhart Circuit. It was said of him that he was not a very great 
preacher, but that he was warm-hearted and sympathetic, and had 
-the confidence of the people. He was licensed and received into the 
itinerancy by the Indiana Conference in '65. 

At the session of '58 he gave $400 to the Indiana Conference 
Missionary Society to establish a fund, on condition that the Con- 
ference arrange to pay $600 on the South Bend Church. The Con- 
ference showed its good intention by at once raising $200 among 
the ministers toward the $600 required. Nothing further has been 
ascertained concerning this brother. 



JACOB KEIPER (1824-1909) 

Brother Keiper, of German ancestry, was born in Reamstown, 
Lancaster Co., Pa., Dec. 31, 1824. He was the fifth of nine chil- 
dren, and was well acquainted with the hardships of those early 
days. His school privileges were limited, but he was studious, dili- 
gently seeking to gain all the knowledge he could, and became 
quite proficient in the use of both German and English. In time 
he became a frequent contributor to the ChristlicJicr Botschaftcr. 

176 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

CONVERSION AND CALL TO PREACH 

During a camp-meeting, held in 1837 near his home, he was 
led to Christ, and obtained pardon of his sins. Rev. J. M. Sind- 
linger, one of our Evangelical preachers, was conducting the camp- 
meeting, and it was under his labors that he united with the Evan- 
gelical Association, His parents already were loyal and devoted 
members of our church, and greatly aided him in his Christian 
life. From the first a great interest in church work and soul- 
saving possessed his heart, and he gave himself with earnestness 
to the cause of the Lord. The church at Reamstown soon en- 
trusted him with the office of a class-leader, in which office he ably 
acquitted himself. 

It was not very long until the voice of God was clearly heard, 
calling him to the preaching of the Word. He did not resist the 
call, was recommended by his class, and, according to the custom 
of that time, was licensed to preach by his Quarterly Conference. 
In 1849 he came westward to E. Germantown, Ind., and upon his 
arrival he met Rev. A. B. Schafer, who was just getting ready to 
leave for the Conference session. Keiper says : "He picked me up 
and took me along to the session of the Illinois Conference, which 
was held at Naperville." The Illinois Conference at once received 
him into the itineracy and assigned him to Dubois Circuit. 

HIS MINISTRY 

His ministry fell in those early pioneer days when hardship 
was a constant companion, salary almost at the vanishing point, 
food-stuff expensive, houses small and rickety, traveling facilities 
worse than poor. These servants of God could truly say, "In jour- 
neying often, in perils of rivers, in perils of robbers, in perils in the 
city, in perils in the wilderness, in labor and travail, in watchings 
often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and naked- 
ness. Besides those things that are without, there is that which 
presseth upon me daily, anxiety for the churches." It was "the 
love of Christ that constrained them" to do and to dare in His 
name. 

He served the following fields with great success and bless- 
ings: Illinois Conf., Dubois Circuit, 1849; Sheboygan Mission, Wis., 
1850, and Whitewater Circuit in 1851. At the formation of the 
Indiana Conference he became a charter member, and was privi- 
leged to be one of three who lived long enough to celebrate the 50th 
anniversary of the formation of the Conference. In the Indiana 
Conference he served Miami Circuit, which had 19 appointments, 

177 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

extending- through Huntington, Wabash, Kosciusko, Marshall, Ful- 
ton and Mianrii Counties in 1852 ; Elkhart Circuit, 1853 ; Dubois Cir- 
cut, 1854; Indian Creek Circuit, 1855; Miami Circuit, 1856-8. 

On account of a throat affection he returned to the Illinois 
Conference in 1869, and was sent to Iowa as a missionary to do 
frontier work. He labored the year through on Grandview Mis- 
sion, blazing a trail for the preachers of the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. In 1860 he served Muscatine ; in 1861, Lisbon ; in 1862-4, 
Cedar Falls; in 1864-5, Independence. At this juncture the Iowa 
Conference was formed, and he became a charter member of it, 
serving Dubuque City and Ackley during the year. 

In the fall of 1867 he again returned to the Indiana Confer- 
ence, and was appointed to Winamac Circuit; in 1868 to Fulton 
Circuit ; in 1869-71 to Elkhart Circuit, and 1871-3, Van Wert. In 
September, 1873, he located on account of the recurrence of throat 
trouble, and removed to Naperville, 111. He transferred his mem- 
bership to the Illinois Conference, engaging in the Lord's service 
in various ways until his demise. One year he served Downers 
Grove and Lockport, and after 1873 engaged in the sale of Bibles 
and books, traveling over various Conference territories. He 
preached whenever circumstances allowed. Twice he had the honor 
of being delegate to General Conference. 

AN APPRECIATION 

As a man. Brother Keiper was firm, loyal, God-fearing and 
true, conscientious almost to a fault. He was a man of deep con- 
viction, and only after proof of error could he be made to retract 
anything that he had said or led to change his mind. This trait 
often caused him trouble, and made not a few enemies. Yet his 
sincerity was never questioned. What he had to say he said with 
honest intent and with the purest of motives. 

When the Evangelical Association was rent by dissention he 
united with the seceders because he thought they were in the right, 
and bec^pe a degelate to the convention that organized the "United 
Evangelical Church," to which church he remained true to the end. 
Yet quite a while before his decease he became an ardent pro- 
moter of reunion of the two churches, and it was a source of great 
joy to him to see, yet in his day, that active steps have been taken 
by both branches of the spiritual house of Albright toward reunion. 

As a minister and pastor he was without a superior. Venture- 
some, ambitious, untiring and devoted, he gave himself to his work 
with a zest. Several times he nearly lost his life trying to ford 
streams in his desire to reach his appointments. In 1871, while 

178 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

serving Elkhart Circuit, he desired a change, and so did the circuit 
likewise ; but when Conference convened he was returned to this 
field, and upon his arrival said,, "I know that you do not want me 
again, and I did not want to come back to you either, but since Con- 
ference has returned me, let us do the very best we can together," 
and he said that this turned out to be one of the very best years 
of his ministry, and the people were loathe to part with him at the 
close of the year. 

As a preacher he was clear, practical and biblical, often force- 
ful and effective. He was free from the fear of man, and preached 
as he believed God wanted him to. His messages were pointed and 
direct, sin was uncovered and slain. Those who opposed the truth 
naturally became irritated and often persecuted him. He was an 
effective soul-winner, a good organizer, and a frequent church 
builder. He was not ashamed to assist in building churches with 
his own hands, being a carpenter by trade. 

HIS PARTING 

It had been his custom for many years to attend watchnight 
services in the German Evangelical Church at Naperville. While 
attending the last one, on Dec. 31, 1908, while the audience was 
standing and singing, he was stricken with paralysis, and com- 
pletely disabled. He was taken home as rapidly as possible, where 
he lingered, helpless as a child, until his release, Feb. 8th, 1909. 
His body was laid to rest in the cemetery at Naperville, Revs. 
Fuessele, his pastor, and G. M. Hallwachs and G. A. Manshart of 
the Evangelical Association conducted the obsequies. 

He was survived by his faithful wife, a Sarah Fisher, whom 
he had married in 1854, and two daughters, Mrs. F. G. Stauflfer 
and Mrs. Rev. S. H. Baumgartner, Three children preceded him 
in death. 

His end was peace, for he died in Him who is the Giver of 
perfect peace. 



JOHN KIPLINGER (1801-1878) 

Brother Kiplinger was born. Center Co., Pa., April 30th, 
1801, and fell asleep, Fulton Co., Indiana, 1878. When a young 
man he moved to Wayne Co., Indiana, and engaged in farming. 
Here he met and married Susanna Loesch, and became the father 
of 9 children. He had the pleasure of seeing three of his sons, 
Eli, Samuel and John, Jr., enter the ministry. Father Kiplinger 
was converted in Pennsylvania, while still a young man, and united 

179 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

with the Evangehcal Association, of which he remained a true 
and faithful member. He was licensed to preach in 1857 by the 
Indiana Conference, having previously, in '43, moved into Fulton 
Co., Ind. He measured 6 feet in height, and was large-boned. He 
had a very fatherly disposition towards young preachers. With 
resignation and success this talented man of God labored as local 
preacher in this community to the end. D. J. Pontius said of him 
that he was never indifferent to his duties. What his hands found 
to do he did with might. That he was an ideal local preacher in 
looking up new preaching places, helping in revival meetings to 
the best of his ability. He was a man of faith, prayer and courage. 
He sought to live a real, earnest. Christian life, which made him 
a wholesome influence in his community. 

Soon after he moved to Indiana his wife died, which was a 
sore bereavement to him. Later he married Elizabeth Weber, and 
they had three children. His release came in '78, after great suf- 
fering, which he bore with patience and resignation. His body 
lies buried in the Salem Cemetery, Fulton Co., Indiana, south of 
Rochester. 



SAMUEL KIPLINGER (1839-1895) 

Samuel was born, Wayne Co., Ohio, Aug. 26th, 1839. He was 
the son of Rev. John Kiplinger, Sr. He was converted at eight 
years of age and united with the Evangelical Association, remain- 
ing faithful to the end. In '43 he came to Fulton Co., Indiana, 
with his parents, and was reared on the farm and obtained a com- 
mon school education. At the age of 22 years the Salem class 
recommended him to the Indiana Conference for license to preach, 
which the Conference granted at its session in Sept., '61. 

HIS ARMY LIFE 

, In Nov., 1861, the Civil War having broken out, he enlisted 
in the 48th Indiana Infantry, and served three years. He partici- 
pated in the battles of Corinth, Fort Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, 
Vicksburg, and Sherman's March to the Sea. He returned with im- 
paired health, resulting in chronic ailments which caused him much 
suffering for 31 years. This greatly hindered his usefuilness and 
marred his happiness. In his army life he maintained an unsullied 
Christian character. J. W. Lertch, First Lieutenant Company A, 
48th Indiana Infantry Volunteers, gave him this testimonial : "I 
certify that Samuel Kiplinger, a member of my company, has been 
a good and faithful soldier, ever ready to perform his duty, obedient 

180 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

to orders, void of faults. He is one also, among the few, who has 
not become addicted to the evils of camp life. May he be able to 
perform his duty to God as he has to his country." 

HIS MINISTRY 

Returning from the army, he entered the active ministry, and 
served Greenville charge in '65 for six months ; Cicero, '66 ; Ken- 
dallville, '67; then he located for three years. After this he served 
Mishawaka, '71-72. He then moved to the Illinois Conference, and 
served Magus, Iowa, '73 ; Laporte, Iowa, '74. At the organization 
of the Iowa Conference, in '75, he became a member of that Con- 
ference, and served Afton, '75-76 ; Creston, '77-78 ; Belle Plain, '79 ; 
Blue Springs, Neb., '82 ; Creston, '86 ; Thayer, '90 ; Nodawa, '91-92 ; 
Creston, '93, for six months. In all he served 29 years as a pas- 
tor, and six years as a supply. 

In '82, when the Platte River Conference was organized, he 
volunteered to do frontier work in this Conference, but soon found 
that his impaired health could not endure such work, and he re- 
turned to the Des Moines Conference. When the deplored rupture 
occurred in the church in '90, he was one of six of his Conference 
that remained loyal to the church, and amidst great opposition car- 
ried on the work. He was a blessing to the church wherever he 
worked. Many souls were won by him for Christ. His end came 
at Creston, Iowa, June 8th, 1895. Rev. J. H. Yaggy, P. E., preached 
his funeral sermon from Second Timothy 4 : 6, 7. Other ministers 
were present and assisted. The G. A. R. post and Sons of Veterans 
turned out in uniform in honor of their comrade. He died in great 
peace. He was married to Henrietta Ruth, Sept. 27th, 1866. They 
lived a very happy life together, and had born to them one son and 
two daughters. To them he left a legacy of a pious, earnest. Chris- 
tian life. He was survived by the entire family. His body lies at 
the cemetery at Creston, Iowa. 



GEO. KLOEPFER (1812-1886) 

Bro. Kloepfer was born at Aaronsburg, Center Co., Pa., March 
11, 1812, and died at the home of his son Omri in Oakland, Ind., 
Sept. 21, 1886. His body lies buried in the Oakland Cemetery. He 
was led to Christ mostly through reading of the Bible, in 1838, and 
united with the Evangelical Association. He lived close to God, 
and was faithful to duty, gaining the confidence of the class-mem- 
bers. He heard and heeded the Divine call to preach the Word. 
The Ohio Conference licensed him as preacher on probation. May 

181 

/ 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

31, 1841, and was received into the itinerancy. His license was 
signed by Bishop J. Seybert and A. B. Schafer, secretary, who 
wrote around its margin in German: "This is the first preacher 
to whom a Conference of the Evangelical Association gave license 
who lived within the State of Indiana." He married Margaret 
Snyder, June 1, 1834. 

HIS MINISTRY 

In May, 1841, he was assigned with C. Augustein to White- 
water Mission. At the close of this year he located on account of 
illness, and then remained in the local relation until Sept., 1857, 
when he again was received into the itinerancy, continuing therein 
for 16 years on the following fields: Elkhart Circuit, 1857; St. 
Joseph Circuit, in Michigan, 1858 ; Lafayette Mission, 1859 ; Cicero 
Mission, 1860 ; Fulton Circuit, 1861 ; Greenville Circuit, 1862 ; Ful- 
ton Circuit again, 1863; Huntington Mission, 1864; Mississinawa 
Mission, 1865. In 1866 he located due to sickness. In 1868, East 
Germantown; 1869, Vandalia Mission, and Mt. Carmel Station, 
1870. In 1871 he again located. Two half years he filled vacancies. 
He said of his own work : "When I look on my past life I see more 
room and cause for humiliation than for exaltation. But God has 
been very good and kind to me. In Him I trust life and death, and 
unto Him I commit all now and forever. Amen." 

He willed $600 to the missionary cause of the church, but later 
sent it direct to Treasurer Wm. Yost as an incentive to others to 
do likewise. When the Indiana Conference was organized his name 
appears in the list of local deacons. His biographer said : "He was 
highly esteemed in the Conference, due to his virtue and sterling 
character, that he was an able preacher in German and English, 
a wise counsellor, genial in disposition, and a staunch lover and 
supporter of the church and her institutions." He chose his own 
funeral text, Phil. 1 : 21, and requested M. W. Steffey to preach 
his funeral sermon, which was done in the Oakland Christian 
Church. J. E. Smith of Noblesville assisted. He w^as survived by 
his wife and six children ; one son previously fell in the Civil War. 



MATHIAS KLAIBER (1831-1885) 

This servant of God was born in Hausen, Oberamt Tutlingen, 
Wuerttemberg, Germany, Aug. 13, 1831, and died in Denver, Colo- 
rado, Oct. 14, 1885. He grew to manhood in his native land, and 
obtained the usual instruction in the Lutheran Church. When he 
was 21 years old he emigrated to America. He was married to 

182 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Mary Glunz in 1856. Under the preaching of Rev. J. Klein, pas- 
tor of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Portsmouth, Ohio, he 
awoke to his need of salvation, and was soon converted to God. 
Soon after this he moved to Independence, Ohio, and united with 
the Evangelical Association, there being no Methodist Episcopal 
church at that place. He was elected as class-leader, and under 
his exhortation and prayers the congregations were often mightily 
aroused, and there were many conversions. 

HIS CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

When he was asked and urged to enter the ministry he strong- 
ly desisted, but later decided to heed the call. He was recom- 
mended by this class to the Indiana Conference, which licensed him 
in 1857. It now became his greatest joy and longing to save souls. 
He served the following fields : Marshall, '58 ; Warrenton, '59 ; Clay 
Co., '60-61; Mt. Carmel, '62; Carmi, '64-64; Vandalia, '65-66; 
Louisville, Zion, '67-68; Cincinnati, '69-70; Dayton, 1st, '71-72; 
Indianapolis. '73-74 ; Louisville Mission, '75-77. Owing to impaired 
health he was then necessitated to locate, and left Louisville, Ky., 
for Denver, Colorado. He was ordained deacon, '60, and as elder, 
'62. He served as secretary of Conference in '69, and eight times 
as assistant secretary. He was a very useful man, and had many 
precious souls for his hire. Since there was no society of the 
Evangelical Association in Denver, he united with the German 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and was transferred to the South- 
west Conference, and served Denver society for three years. In 
1881 this Conference made him supernumerary, and in 1884 super- 
annuated him. He was a faithful laborer, patient in afliiction and 
trustful when dying. He was survived by his wife and children. 



CHARLES R. KOCH (1844-1881) 

Charles R., the 7th child of Anthony Koch, was born at Bloom- 
field, Scioto Co., 0., Sept. 16, 1844, and died in Cincinnati, 0., Dec. 
13, 1881, where he also was buried. His parents came from Olden- 
burg, Germany, and arriving at Bloomfield, O., they became pio- 
neer farmers. In '58 they moved to Spencer Co., Ind., and contin- 
ued farming. Here Charles was brought under the influence of the 
true Gospel in a United Brethren church, where he was converted 
and united with this church. But in '66 he united with the Evan- 
gelical Association. He was active and was made class-leader in 
the Zoar Church of Rockport charge. Here he engaged in farm- 
ing and carpenter work, until in '70, when he entered North- 

183 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Western College and Union Biblical Institute at Naperville, 111., 
and remained 3 years, working his way through. He received his 
recommendation from the Naperville class, and then in the spring 
of '73 was sent to St. Paul, Minn., where he preached one year as a 
probationer. In '74 he was ordained deacon and sent to Minneapo- 
lis, Minn., serving faithfully 1 year. 

On May 14, 1875, he was married to Ottilie Kadatz of Min- 
neapolis. They were then sent to Maple Grove, Minn., where he 
remained 2 years. Here the condition of his health gave alarm. 
He then applied to the South Indiana Conference to try a milder 
climate. He was received and assigned to Huntingburg, where he 
remained until the spring of '81, when he was appointed to Cin- 
cinnati, 0. Here he contracted small-pox and died. The funeral 
had to be private and without delay. As no preacher of our church 
could reach there in time. Rev. Nagel of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church preached the funeral sermon, assisted by Rev. Streich of 
the United Brethren Church. At the following quarterly meeting 
John Fuchs held a memorial service in remembrance of him. 

His work as a minister of the Gospel, although brief, was thor- 
ough and fruitful. He was sociable and loved by the people he 
served. Improvements and many blessings followed his work. 
Charles, as his brother said, "believed with Emerson, that 'preach- 
ing is the expression of the moral sentiment in application to the 
duties of life.' In thus doing toward God, he fulfilled his obligation 
toward mankind often at the peril of his own health and welfare." 
■He was survived by his wife, 2 sons and 1 daughter. 



GEO. MICHAEL KOEHL (1819-1897) 

Bro. Koehl was born in Zaberfeld, Wuerttemberg, Germany, 
Jan. 18, 1819, and died May 21, 1897, at Des Moines, la., where he 
.also is buried. When he was a boy of 13 years his parents immi- 
grated to America and first settled in Baltimore, Md., then they 
moved to Philadelphia, Pa., and later to Bucks Co., Pa., where they 
located on a farm. Here the family came under the influence of 
the Evangelical Association, and young Koehl, in his 11th year, 
was led to accept Christ as his Saviour, and united with the Evan- 
gelical Association. 

In '43 he was wedded to Anna Kath. Mumbauer, who, to- 
gether, were permitted to share the joys and sorrows of life for 49 
years. She preceded him in death 4 years. Eight children were 
born to them ; four survived him. 

184 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

In '54 he moved with his family to E. Troy, Wis., where they 
united with the German Methodist Episcopal Church, the Evan- 
gelical Association not being represented there. Soon after com- 
ing here he was elected class-leader, serving 4 years. He also 
served as Sunday-school superintendent. In '62 he received license 
as exhorter, and '69 as preacher on probation. In '74, having moved 
within the bounds of the Indiana Conference of the Evangelical 
Association, he united with this Conference, coming, as he said, 
"home again to mother." 

In the Indiana Conference he served as follows: In '74, Rock- 
port. When the South Indiana Conference was organized in '76 
he became a charter member of it, and continued at Rockport until 
21/2 years were served. Then Shelby Mission, 21/2 years; Vandalia, 
3 years; Shelby again, 3 years. In '86 he moved to Des Moines, 
la., and united with the Iowa Conference, In the spring of '87 he 
took charge of Polk and Laurel Mission, serving 3 years. The rest 
of his life he rendered service as time and circumstances allowed. 
The last few years he spent in retirement with his daughter, Mrs. 
Holmes. He was beloved and honored in the family and by neigh- 
bors. He led many souls to Christ, as his records show. He de- 
parted in the full assurance of faith. Rev, Geo. Knoche preached 
his funeral sermon by Koehl's request, who had also buried his 
wife and 1 son. The pastor, Auracher, assisted. 



WM. KOENIG (1836-1909) 

This servant of God was born in Satteldorf, Greilsheim, Wuert- 
temberg, Germany, April 24, 1836, and died peacefully in Bremen, 
Ind., Oct. 15, 1909. His body was entombed in Greenville Ceme- 
tery, O. He was gloriously converted in Greenville in '59. He 
was recommended to preach the Gospel by the Richmond class of 
the Evangelical Association, and licensed by the Indiana Confer- 
ence, Sept. 13, 1869. He was ordained deacon in '71, and as elder 
in '73. He was married to Katherine Heim, Nov, 23, 1858. To 
them were born 5 sons and 3 daughters. 

Young William came to America in '53. While crossing the 
North Sea a fierce storm was encountered, the main sail and mast 
being torn from their places. Some Wuerttemberger boys were on 
deck, and when the storm began raging were thoroughly frightened. 
One piteously cried and kept saying in the Wuerttemberg dialect, 
"E wolt e wer bei der Mutter bliewa !" "I wish I had stayed with 
mother." 

185 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

William, after arriving in America, went to Greenville, O., 
where he grew into full manhood. Here he learned the cooper 
trade, which he followed here and in Richmond, Ind., up to the 
time of entering the ministry. 

HIS CONVERSION AND WORK IN THE CHURCH 

His parents were Lutherans and reared him in this faith. 
After coming to Greenville he began attending the services of the 
Evangelical Association during the pastorate of Rev. Phil. 
Schwartz. In '59 he became thoroughly awakened and enlightened 
concerning his sinfulness, and what to do to find deliverance for 
sin. He turned to God with true repentance, and exercised faith 
in the atoning blood of Christ, and was gloriously converted to 
God "in the good old-fashioned way," as he often expressed it. It 
was his notion that when he became converted his conversion must 
be "decent and orderly." He greatly disliked and disapproved of 
loud and wild demonstrations, such as shouting, clapping of hands, 
and audibly praising God. But when he came under the regenerat- 
ing power of the Holy Spirit, and fully surrendered himself to 
God, he entirely forgot his preconceived notions of conversion and 
experienced, with great outward demonstrations, the pardon of his 
sins, audibly praising God for the great joy he now realized in his 
soul. He at once united with the Evangelical Association, and took 
an active part in all her work. He was soon entrusted with 
various official duties in Greenville, and in Richmond, Ind., whither 
he had moved, and gave good satisfaction. He rapidly grew in 
grace and knowledge and evinced considerable ability and aptitude 
to lead souls to Christ and believers to better living. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND HIS MINISTERIAL WORK 

William soon felt constrained, by the love of God in his heart, 
to go forth as a herald of the Cross. He now had a family con- 
sisting of a wife and 3 children, and hesitated to enter the minis- 
try because he was very poor and could not buy a horse and buggy 
and other necessaries for ministerial work. But his Presiding 
Elder, Mel. Mayer, urged him to take up the Gospel work, and 
offered to advance him the money to buy the necessary outfit. The 
class at Richmond recommended him, and the Conference licensed 
him. He served on the following fields : Montgomery Circuit, 
1870-1; Fulton, 1871-2; Waupecong, 1872-4; Logansport, 1874-6; 
Bremen, 1876-8; Wanatah, 1878-81; Celina, 1881-4. Now he 
changed his Conference relation to the South Indiana Conference, 
serving various fields from 1884-'93, when this Conference was re- 

186 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

incorporated with the Indiana Conference. He served Terre Haute, 
1893-4; Bremen again, 1894-7; Brazil, 1897-8. In April, '98, he 
retired from active service and located in Terre Haute, owning to 
the rapidly failing health of his wife, who lingered along until 
March, 1903, having shared together each other's joys and sor- 
rows for over 45 years. Bro. Koenig, after this, lived most of his 
time with the children. He, however, served out a year on Elber- 
feld Circuit, which became vacant during the Conference year of 
1905. 

In his preaching he disliked sham, or anything that savored 
of pride. He always aimed to keep close to his text. His preach- 
ing was earnest, biblical and practical. He was fearless in declar- 
ing the truth, true to his convictions, conscientious in his pastoral 
duties and clean in his habits of life. He was an enemy to evils, 
especially to intemperance of any sort, and the popular sins of 
modern days. On one of his charges he was called to officiate at 
a funeral of a young man who died as a drunkard. The father of 
this young man said to Koenig "that I believe the son died with 
salvation and is in heaven." In connection with the reading of the 
obituary Koenig stated that the father of this, his son, "believed 
he died with salvation and is in heaven." This greatly displeased 
the father, for he wanted Koenig to say it, as though it were his 
own personal conviction. Koenig believed at such occasions to 
preach salvation to the living, and not to eulogize the dead, and ex- 
alt them to heaven when there was no such evidence at hand. 

He took sick at Bremen, where he stayed during the last year 
of his life. He suffered greatly, but bore it patiently until his de- 
mise. He was survived by 3 sons, one. Rev. Benj. E., member of 
the Indiana Conference, who was one of his own converts in Bra- 
zil, Ind., and 1 daughter. Shortly before his death he said, "Eter- 
nity and God, how little and insignificant one's work does seem, 
and how weak and imperfect are all the plans and energies of man. 
How little does one's own preaching appear in the light of the eter- 
nal glory of God. But how precious to be a child of God — a child 
saved by grace." What a testimony for a departing child of God! 

J. O. Mosier, P. E., officiated at Bremen and had general 
charge of the funeral. 



SAMUEL BAUMGARTNER KRING (1827-1893) 

This man of God entered this life near Johnstown, Pa., Oct. 
6, 1827, and departed very unexpectedly, Decatur, Ind., July 28, 
1893. His body was interred in the Hicksville, Ohio, cemetery. His 

187 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

parents were farmers, and belonged to the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. In this church Samuel was reared and was converted in a 
camp-meeting when but 13 years old. He then also joined his par- 
ents' church and lived an active and consistent Christian life. His 
class, called Cambria, recommended him to the Western Pennsyl- 
vania Conference in the spring of 1849 for license to preach, which 
was granted. He continued in the active ministry until death, 
serving in all 43 years — 2 years in the Western Pennsylvania Con- 
ference and 33 in the Pittsburg Conference, of which he was a 
charter member when organized in 1852, and 8 years he gave ox- 
cellent service in the Indiana Conference. He was ordained as 
deacon in 1852 and as elder in 1854. He served 16 years as presid- 
ing elder in the Pittsburg Conference, and represented this Con- 
ference 4 or 5 times as a delegate to General Conference, and filled 
other important positions of trust in that Conference. 

FIELDS HE SERVED 

In 1850-1 he served Summerset Circuit with Daniel Sill ; 1851- 
2, Center Circuit with Rev. Dellinger; 1852-3, Warren Station 
(Pittsburg Conference from now on) ; 1853-4, Allegheny Mission; 
1854-6, Summerset again; 1856-7, Allegheny Mission again; 1857-8, 
Indiana and Cambria Circuits; 1858-9, Cambria Circuit; 1859 he 
located, due to impaired health; 1860-1, Indiana and Clearfield Cir- 
cuits; 1861-2, Cambria again. In 1862 he was newly elected as 
presiding elder and stationed on Summerset District, and con- 
tinued in this work 16 years. His service in the Indiana Confer- 
ence began April, 1886, although he served a work in the Confer- 
ence in the past year as a supply. He served Hicksville, 2 years ; 
Watchtower, Elkhart, 1888-90; Kendallville, 1890-2, and Decatur, 
until his death. While he was reading in the Bible, sitting in a 
rocking chair, making preparation for his Sunday work, the death 
messenger, without a warning, called him to rest. 

He was a man of excellent judgment and of safe counsel. He 
often was appointed on important judiciary committees. When 
the Civil War broke out he was bitterly opposed to slavery, and 
though he did not feel it his duty to leave the Master's work to vol- 
unteer for the army, he declared if he were drafted to enter army 
life he should consider it a call from God, and would go. Once in 
the early part of his ministry he met with a serious accident that 
might have proved fatal. He was thrown from his horse, and with 
one foot caught in the stirrup, he was dragged along for some dis- 
tance. He always considered this event a miraculous intervention 
of Providence in his behalf. He also passed through many severe 

188 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

trials during his ministry, but none so great as the trial that came 
during the division in the church. He was of a peace-loving, char- 
itable and loyal disposition, willing to suffer wrong rather than do 
wrong. He took no active part in the conflict that rent his beloved 
church, but it greatly grieved him to see his children in the min- 
istry with their husbands, on account of it, become estranged from 
his church which he dearly loved and for which he sacrificed his 
whole life. 

He was quite successful in the ministry. Many souls were led 
to Christ by his ministration. He was, it is said, "more powerful 
in revival meetings by his personal work than by preaching." His 
fruit was largely "hand-picked." He strove more for quality than 
quantity. He was an excellent pastor and comforter to the sick 
and needy. His sympathy for those in trouble was real, and his 
intercourse with the people warm and cordial. D. S. Oakes said: 
"His preaching was sound in doctrine, clear, logical, forceful and 
practical. His sermons were unctuous and edifying, mostly ex- 
pository rather than hortatory, and did not fail to reach the 
hearts of the people." 

He was married to Anna Stull, daughter of Rev. John Stull 
of near Johnstown, Pa., Sept. 12, 1853. To them were born 3 
daughters, two of whom married ministers of the Gospel — Rev. 
C. C. Poling, father of the famous temperance worker, Daniel Pol- 
ing, and Rev. C. C. Beyrer. Mrs. Poling was for a number of years 
engaged in evangelistic work, and led many souls to Christ. At the 
obsequies of Bro. Kring, F. E. Zechiel officiated at Decatur, Sun- 
day evening, July 30, assisted by M. W. Krueger and H. Steininger. 
At the services at Hicksville D. S. Oakes officiated, assisted by W. 
H. Mygrant and S. H. Baumgartner. 



REV. J. N. KRONMILLER (1817-1896) 

The person of this sketch was born March 15, 1817, in the 
town of Nassig, Amt Wertheim, Grossherzogtum Baden, Germany. 
His father's name was Jacob, who was a smith by trade, and with 
it he also managed the hotel business of his father. J. N. was at 
this time 6 or 7 years old. His mother's maiden name was Schles- 
man. He w^as the youngest of three brothers. In his sixth year he 
began going to school, and did well in all studies except writing. 
His parents were Lutherans in faith, and in this faith reared up 
their children. He wrote in his day-book, "I remember the time 
when I found grace, about the eleventh year, but owing to the fact 

189 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



that I had no Bible instruction and edification in spiritual things, 
I became quite careless and lived about in the ordinary run of the 
world." Yet with this manner of living he believed himself to be 
living in the service of God, After he was out of school he became 
an apprentice in wagon-making, which trade he continued in until 
he entered the Gospel ministry. 

In 1840, June 20, he, with his 
betrothed, Appolina Wiesman, em- 
igrated from Germany to Rotter- 
dam and then across the Atlantic 
Ocean to Baltimore, Maryland ; 
thence to Cincinnati, Ohio, where 
they were married in August, 1841. 
Here they lived about one year, 
and then moved to a small town 
called Vandalia, in Montgomery 
County, Ohio. At this place our 
preachers preached. Like Paul's 
preaching to the Greeks, so the 
preaching of these Albright 
preachers seemed foolishness to 
him, and on that account, he says, 
"I opposed them very hard until 
finally the power of the truth so 
thoroughly convinced me that I 
had no more rest, day and night, 
until I found peace and rest in the 
wounds of a crucified Saviour.'' His penitential struggle was a 
hard one. His wife, who was a Catholic, bitterly opposed him, and 
scolded him for such foolish ideas he now had. But finally she was 
moved to read up on the new birth, and read out of her own Catho- 
lic Bible the third chapter of John's Gospel, and was seized with 
•conviction, and convinced of the error of her way, and sought par- 
don for her sins, and became soundly converted. He speaks of his 
experience thus : "The Lord gave me victory on the evening of Nov. 
1, 1843. Oh, what a joy I received, my pen cannot describe it." He 
was converted under the labors of Revs. Aaron Jampert and Fred- 
erick Meyer. 

Right from his conversion he felt a strong inward desire for 
the salvation of his fellow-men. He was soon thereafter elected as 
class-leader, showing ability in leadership, and continued as such 
for eight years. In 1851 he took up the work of a colporteur and 
traveled for 18 months for the "American Tract Union Society." 

190 




J. N. KRONMILLER 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

On April 24, 1852, he received a license as preacher on probation 
from the Quarterly Conference of the Vandalia society ; A. B, 
Schafer was presiding elder, and A. E. Dreisbach, pastor. But on 
account of "fear of men," he says he did not preach much. On 
June 2, 1853, he entered the active ministry in the Indiana Con- 
ference. The session was held in East Germantown, Wayne Co., 
Indiana, and he was assigned to DeKalb Mission in North-eastern 
Indiana and North-western Ohio. 

His first year in the ministry resulted in only one conversion. 
This greatly discouraged him, but the Lord strengthened and sus- 
tained him. His salary for this year was the meager sum of $76.68. 
May 31, 1854, the Conference session was again held in East Ger- 
mantown, and he was appointed to St, Mary's Circuit with H. 
Strickler as assistant. This field consisted of 18 to 20 appoint- 
ments in Allen, Huntington, Wabash, Wells, Adams Counties, In- 
diana, and east into Ohio. After the session he hurried home and 
moved his family from Bean Creek near Defiance, Ohio, to Fuhr- 
man's settlement, 7 miles north-west of Decatur, Ind., arriving 
there June 16, well preserved. Here he found a frame church and 
parsonage which at this time were few, and hence much appreci- 
ated. On this charge he says the Lord's work progressed slowly, 
the spirit of disunion was prevalent in some places, and being yet 
inexperienced, he was afraid he could not manage affairs, but he 
took recourse to God for counsel, and not in vain. On his first 
round he was seized with chill-fever, so prevalent in those days, 
which made traveling very hard. He says, "That on his way home, 
in a forest where no one knew where he was, he could get no fur- 
ther; he dismounted his horse, had scarcely tied his horse when 
he became unconscious, but after awhile he regained consciousness, 
remounted the horse, stopped over night at Schnuerlein, and Nov. 
24 resumed his trip home, and met with another serious mishap 
between Willshire, Ohio, and Decatur, Ind., where his horse slipped, 
dislocated a hind leg, and had to be killed. This occurrence brought 
him into a severe temptation. The devil accused him that he was 
not called of God to preach the Gospel, or else this mishap would 
not have befallen him. But to his great consolation, Bishop John 
Seybert came just then into his charge, helped him in a meeting, 
and through his sermon Kronmiller became so greatly encouraged 
that suddenly all temptation left him. But what was he now to 
do to fill his appointments without a horse, and no money to buy 
one? The Bishop advised him to start a list among his members 
for financial aid to buy another horse, which he did. But another 
disappointment met him, when he had traveled with his new horse 

191 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

from an appointment (Raudebush's), north of Fort Wayne, over 
very rough roads to L. Dustman's in Huntington County. He 
found the next morning, when he saddled his horse, that it was so 
stiff that it could not walk. So he had to borrow a horse to make 
his round, and when he came back to Leininger's to preach a few 
days later, Dustman had his horse there for him. That night he 
put up his horse in Leininger's stable in which his own horses 
were. The next morning he found his horse badly kicked and 
bleeding profusely. Even the preacher's horses had a hard time, 
and were often mistreated by unfriendly brutes of its like. So he 
was obliged to walk sixteen miles, leading his horse, weakened by 
the loss of blood. He says, "Oh, how the enemy tried to drive me 
from the field." All this occurred on one trip on his field. 

March 5, he again was downhearted, having had frequent at- 
tacks of fever, was very poor and again this year received only 
$76.00 salary. A barrel of flour cost $10.00, but in spite of pov- 
erty he kept trusting in the Lord. On March 15, he desired and 
prayed for more holiness and a better consecration to God, that 
he might better resist temptations and do more eff'ectual work for 
God. 

At the Conference session held at Ott's settlement, near Syra- 
cuse, Ind., in 1855, he was assigned to Fulton Circuit. At this ses- 
sion he was ordained deacon. He says regarding the ordination, 
"Oh, what an important hour this was for me, I shall never forget 
it." On Thursday following the Conference session he was already 
on the way to his new field which extended from five miles west 
of Plym.outh to three miles south of Peru (Sharpee's class), and 
from Barnheisel's class, near Gilead, west to Rensselaer, Jasper 
County, over nine counties. 

No record was kept of his experience for a while because it 
seemed to him his preaching was not as successful as that of other 
brethren, and he was willing to go through this world unnoticed. 

At the session of 1856, held in Mt. Caimel, 111., June 4, he was 
again returned to Fulton Circuit. A water famine prevailed dur- 
ing this summer, crops were short, and of course, salary also. This 
year he had 19 appointments in five counties, preached nearly every 
day, and met with a bodily rupture. The Conference sessions be- 
ing changed to fall, it made the year 16 months. On this field 
he was much hindered with fever among the people, but he won 
a goodly number of souls for Christ and the church. 

At the session held at East Germantown, Ind., Sept. 2, 1857, 
he was ordained elder, and was assigned to Marshall Circuit in 
Illinois. This was a large field extending 75 miles westward to 

192 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Vandalia, but was a good year, resulting in many conversions and 
accessions. No record is made from this time to 1873. From 
Marshall he was sent to Warrington Circuit in 1858, now Elber- 
feld. Then to Mt. Carmel in 1859, then back to Marshall in 1860, 
then to Montgomery Circuit, Ohio, his old home, in 1861. He 
says, "It went hard to go to my home." Here he stayed two years. 
September, 1863, he was assigned to Defiance Mission and re- 
mained tw^o years, then to Clay City Mission in Indiana for two 
years, then to Olney, 111., for two years, which proved to be his most 
successful years in the ministry; but he had also hard trials and 
conflicts to combat with. In 1870 he was appointed to Carmi, 
which also was a very successful year, many being converted in 
Enterprise and Grayville, then a part of Carmi charge. He re- 
cords that July 2, 1871, a prayer-meeting was held 3 miles west 
of Carmi in a farm house, at which time twelve persons were 
gloriously converted. It was a happy time, and the building of a 
church in Carmi was a further result of this meeting. In the ses- 
sion of 1871 he was again stationed to Mt. Carmel. Some persons 
were converted. In 1872 and 1873 he served Huntingburg Cir- 
cuit; here he had a few conversions, then in 1874-75 he again 
served Carmi with good success. In 1876 and 1877 he again 
served Warrington Circuit and built Tabor Church. In 1878 he 
was assigned to Cincinnati, which charge he served three years, 
which were quite successful years with a net gain in membership 
of 55, At the session held at West Salem in 1881 he was for the 
third time assigned to Mt. Carmel. February 14, 1882, his dear 
companion died. But he continued in the ministry, and at the ses- 
sion of 1882 he was again assigned to Cincinnati. This was a 
year of sore trials, but the Lord helped to bear the cross. In 1883 
he was returned. Success followed his efforts here each year. In 
1884 Rockfort Mission was assigned to him. In April of this year 
he again entered matrimonial life with Mrs, Louisa Spengeman, a 
widow, whose maiden name was Lohmeier, He found it hard to 
serve this mission. In 1886, at the Conference session held in Mt. 
Carmel, he located after serving in the Gospel ministry 33 suc- 
cessive years. At this time his bodily strength was considerably 
impaired. He was now 69 years old. He indeed endured the hard- 
ships of a good soldier of Jesus Christ, incident to a ministerial 
pioneer's life in the early history of the church. He was faithful 
to his trust, anxious for souls, fervent in spirit, abounding in per- 
sonal work, zealous for God and the church. Thoroughly Evangel- 
ical, he fearlessly exposed sin and its effects. 

193 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

He made Carmi his last stopping place on earth and here he 
spent the evening of life. He died Aug. 22, 1896. For eight years 
he gradually grew weaker and more helpless, and had to be cared 
for. But he never murmured, but patiently surrendered himself 
to God and His will. For seven years this man of God had to be 
fed as a child by his patient Christian wife. Victoriously he passed 
over into the promised land of rest. His body awaits the resur- 
rection of the just in the Carmi Cemetery. G. Koch and I. H. 
Griesemer spoke at his funeral, and L. J. Ehrhardt, O. Markman, 
F. Dauner and J. A. Maier also took part, and other ministers 
served as pall-bearers. 

In the Civil War he took a stand for the abolition of slavery, 
as did the church. He gave one son for the emancipation of the 
Negro slaves, who was killed in the army. He saw much sorrow in 
his own family life by reason of sickness and death. Wife and 
eight children preceded him in death. He is survived by his sec- 
ond wife, three sons and two daughters. 



JACOB KRUMEISEN (1837-1862) 

This brother was born in Switzerland, Jan. 1, 1837, and died 
in the hospital of Holly Spring, Mississippi, Dec. 9, 1862. He 
came to America with his parents in 1858, and settled near Olney, 
111. In March (probably 1869) he was converted to God and united 
with the Evangelical Association. He manifested a deep piety 
and godly conduct, and thus gained the confidence of the people 
in and out of the church. Realizing the call of God to preach he 
yielded and was licensed by the Indiana Conference as a preacher 
on probation in Sept., 1861. He served well as a local preacher. 
When the Civil War broke out he felt it his duty to enter army 
life in the interest of the Union and abolishment of slavery. He 
became a soldier of the 63rd Regiment of the Illinois Volunteers. 
As a soldier he also acquitted himself nobly to the extent that he 
was advanced to important hospital services. Here he labored 
faithfully and untiringly in spiritual and bodily nursing of the 
wounded soldiers, and "achieved a high order of respect and confi- 
dence from all." His early departure caused great sorrow and re- 
gret among the comrades as also at home. In him the church lost 
a promising young man. No record of his burial could be found, 
but likely occurred near Holly Spring, Miss. 

194 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

FRED LAUNER (1831-1901) 

Bro. Launer was born Oct. 4, 1831, in Lauterbrunnen, Switz- 
erland, and died near Laurel, Jamhill Co., Oregon, April 24, 1901. 
He came to America with his mother in '46, and located near 01- 
ney, 111. Under the preaching of ministers of the Evangelical 
Association he was led to repentance. He united with the Evan- 
gelical Association and served her for nearly 50 years. Soon after 
conversion he exhibited marked aptness for the Gospel ministry, 
and, heeding God's call, was recommended by the class and licensed 
by the Indiana Conference in Sept., '65, as preacher on probation. 
For 20 years he was an honored member of this Conference, giv- 
ing excellent and successful service. 

He served Mattoon charge in Illinois 2 years ; Carmi Circuit, 
2 years ; Vandalia Circuit, 2 years ; Fulton Circuit, 2 years ; St. 
Mary's Circuit, 1 year ; Elkhart Circuit, 3 years ; St. Mary's Cir- 
cuit again, 1 year; Greenville Circuit, 2 years; Winchester, 2 years; 
Mt. Carmel, 1 year ; West Salem, 2 years. In '86 he moved to 
the Oregon Conference and served 1 year as supply on Newbury 
and Dayton Circuit. On account of failing eyesight he had to lo- 
cate, which was done with reluctance. He said to Rev, J. E. Smith, 
"It was only after I could not read at all, and I became tired of 
threshing out straw that T became willing to locate." He was or- 
dained as deacon in '68, and as elder in '70. 

Launer was an "earnest, conscientious preacher, and sought 
the conversion of sinners rather than the applause of men." He 
had many souls for his hire. He bore his affliction with Christian 
courage, his faith in God remaining strong and steady to the end. 
During the winter of '91 his health rapidly failed. He had a great 
desire to attend Conference session once more and meet Bishop 
Esher, who was to preside ; but both died before the session of the 
Oregon Conference took place, and met in heaven. He died sud- 
denly while in his barn doing chores. 

In '85 he was married to Mary Bushong. To them were born 
12 children, 9 of whom survived him. One son, F. W., is a minis- 
ter of the Oregon Conference, and one in the United Evangelical 
Church. Rev. J. E. Smith officiated at his funeral, with the breth- 
ren F. Harder, A. Weinert, E. D. Hornschuch and E. L. Jones 

assisting. 

HENRY MAIER (1831-1864) 

This brother was a native of Weisloch, Heidelberg, Germany, 
born Jan. 1, 1831. He was reared and confirmed in the faith of 
the Reformed Church. Henry came to America in '52, and first 

195 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

located in Tiffin, 0., where he married Katherine Umbach in '53, 
who also had come with him to America. From here they moved 
to Melbern, in Williams Co., O., where he became acquainted with 
people of the Evangelical Association, and upon attending their 
services, was awakened to the need of salvation, and was thor- 
oughly converted to God in '59. He united with the Jerusalem, 
now Oak Grove class, of Edgerton Circuit, and remained true to 
the Evangelical Association until death. For a number of years 
he served as class-leader, and then, in '62, the Indiana Conference 
licensed him as preacher on probation. 

In the spring of '64 he entered army life in Regiment 68, Ohio 
Volunteers. He was shot July 22 of this year in the Battle of At- 
lanta, Ga., by a bullet that penetrated through both of his legs near 
the body. He was taken to the field hospital. His wounds healed 
nicely, and he was about to come home when he took seriously ill 
with camp dysentery and died Sept. 17, 1864. Maier was a loyal 
follower of God on the battle-field, ''holding and attending prayer- 
meetings in tents." Shortly before death he was asked by a fellow- 
soldier about his hope of eternal life, to which he replied, "It is 
clear; I am ready to die." He was survived by his wife and 6 
children. His interment was made somewhere in the South. 



JOS. A. MAIER (1836-1914) 

Joseph was born Oct. 23, 1836, at Obermachtal, Wuertt^mberg, 
Germany, and died of old age in Carmi, III, Sept. 26, 1914. His 
body was laid to rest in the Maple Ridge Cemetery near Carmi. 
His father was a carpenter and a member of the Roman Catholic 
Church. Joseph finished the ordinary German school, graduating 
with honors. After this he learned the cooper trade, following it 
until he entered the ministry. 

He was converted to God at Carmi under Wm. Wessler's la- 
bors in '56, and united with the Evangelical Association. He 
served 3 years in the Civil War with the 87th Illinois Infantry. 
After the war the Carmi class recommended him to the Indiana 
Conference, and in Sept., '66, he was licensed and assigned to the 
following fields: 1866-8, St. Mary's; '68-70, to Richmond Mis- 
sion; '70-72, to Evansville; '72-74, Mt. Carmel; '74-75, to Mound 
City; '75-76, Jonesboro. Then he located on account of family 
conditions. He was ordained deacon in '68, and as elder in '70. 

He had ordinary success in the ministry. He was rather slow 
in speech and lacked animation in delivering his sermons. He was 
often opposed to introduce English preaching into the congregation 

196 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

where it was really needed, being quite jealous for the German, 
even to the injury of Christ's kingdom. He was German class- 
leader for years after he located. 

He was married to Clara Erkman, Aug. 7, 1865. of Carmi, 
111., and had 4 children. His wife and one son survived him. Pas- 
tor A. G. Stierle officiated at his funeral, and was assisted by J. W. 
Feller and Martin Speck. 



MELCHIOR MAYER (1815-1888) 

The earthly life of Rev. Melchior Mayer, of whom this brief 
history gives an account, began January 26, 1815, in Westheim, 
Canton Germersheim, Rhoinpfalz, Bavaria, Germany, died in Mt. 
Carmel, Aug. 8, 1888. His body was laid to rest in the Mt. Carmel 
Cemetery. His father's name was John Jacob, who died August 
10, 1833. His mother's maiden name was Mary Eva Deshler. 
This union was blessed with six children. He received the rite of 
water baptism as an infant, with Melchior Eisenhardt and Eva 
Kath. May as godfather and godmother respectively. His par- 
ents were pious and devoted members of the Lutheran Church, 
who reared their children to be religious and devoted to their 
church, sending them regularly to school, where they were taught 
to reverence and obey the Bible, and received catechetical instruc- 
tion along with other studies they pursued. They were taught 
to faithfully attend all of the church services, and as much as pos- 
sible adhere to all that was good and pure. Thus we see that 
Melchior Mayer was reared in a religious atmosphere, and early 
imbibed Christian principles, and enjoyed good educational ad- 
vantages. In his autobiographical sketch nothing is said as to his 
manual work as a young man, nor of his moral conduct in life. 

In 1829, at the age of fourteen years, having satisfactorily 
completed the course of catechetical instruction, he was confirmed, 
and for the first time permitted to partake of the Lord's Supper. 
When he was thirty years old he decided to enter the matrimonial 
life with Anna Caroline Hostermann. Their civil marriage took 
place June 28, 1845, and their church marriage July 13, 1845. 
Pastor Roos officiated. They lived in Westheim, 

In the spring of 1851 there arose a strong desire in their 
hearts to emigrate to America. They began to make the neces- 
sary preparation for this interesting voyage across the Atlantic. 
On the 9th of September they left their fatherland, and after 48 
days' sailing they arrived safe and sound, on November 4, at New 
Orleans, La. On the 5th of November they left for Evansville, 

197 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Ind., per steamboat, where they arrived November 17. Here they 
were met by his cousin, Jacob Mayer, who was ready for an in- 
land trip with a wagon team, and drove the same day to Newburg, 
and the next day they reached their destination at the farm of an- 
other cousin, John George Mayer, ten miles from Rockport, Ind. 
Here he settled with his family, living on the farm of his cousin, 
John George. 

When M. M. arrived here with his wife and two daughters they 
were almost penniless ; they felt lonely and forsaken in a new and 
strange country. But they were soon visited by German settlers, 
who were Christians, and gave them needed help and encourage- 
ment. A quarterly meeting of the Evangelical Association was 
being held November 25-26, to which Mayers and Deshlers, a 
brother-in-law and his wife, who came with them from Europe, 
were invited. They consented to go. Brother Henry Bachmann 
came for them. Bros. Geo. A. Blank, P. E., F. Wiethaupt, P. C, 
and F. Scheuermann, a traveling minister, conducted the quarterly 
meeting. M. says, ''They preached the Word of God clearly and 
powerfully. We were at once inwardly convinced that we were not 
right with God, and cannot in our present moral condition be 
saved." Here we see the providential leadings of God. 

These ministers went to Huntingburg, Ind., to hold a quar- 
terly meeting, and invited Mayer and Deshler to go along. They 
concluded to go. Brethren at Rockport provided them with horses 
to ride, and Bro. Romig went along as guide. While at Hunting- 
burg they faithfully attended the services. M. says, "Here I fully 
learned to know myself, and felt that a change of heart must take 
place. I became a penitent, acknowledging my sins, and continued 
until I found peace, joy and conscious salvation on November 30, 
1851." At this time he also united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. A week later his wife was also happily converted and joined 
the church. "From now on," he says, "we served the Lord in 
weakness, and made use of every opportunity to attend the preach- 
ing of God's Word and the prayer-meetings, which was not in 
vain, for we made progress continually, and grew stronger in the 
cause of Christ." 

In 1852, their class being divided in two, M. was elected as 
class-leader for the second class, and served, he says, "in great 
weakness," but the Lord was with him. He served the class from 
May, 1852, to November, 1854. During this time he often felt con- 
strained to preach the Gospel. He revealed his call to Brother Wm. 
Bockman and Jacob Keiper, his pastors. K. brought his call to the 
ministry to the attention of his class, which then gave him a rec- 

198 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ommendation to the Quarterly Conference at Huntingburg, where 
he also was received as a preacher on probation in November, 1854. 
He now began preaching in Rockport and vicinity. When his call 
to the ministry was plain to him, he said, "I will go as soon as the 
w^ay opens." One day a minister came and said to him, "Come 
along and enter the work." He was then in the field working with 
a team, and at once unhitched his horses, got ready and went 
along. This was in May. June 2nd, 1855, at the Conference ses- 
sion held in Otts settlement, near Syracuse, Ind., he was received 
into the itinerancy, and with Wm. Wessler was appointed to Du- 
bois Circuit, to which he belonged since he was a member of the 
church. 

Thus his real work as a minister dates from June, 1855. He 
kept a daily record of his travels, where he preached, when, and 
from what text. His first text was Romans 1 : 16. Surely he was 
not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for he experienced that it was 
a power unto salvation. In these days many camp-meetings were 
held, which the brethren on the districts faithfully attended, and 
all took their turn at preaching. He made a record of all texts that 
were used by the different pastors, and often stated with what spir- 
itual results. Dubois Circuit was composed of Huntingburg City, 
Maple Grove, Rockport, Zoar, Grandview, Warrington, Bluegrass, 
Kohlmeier's, Paris, Broomville and Evansville. 

M. M. served the following fields : Dubois Circuit from Sep- 
tember 1855-6 ; here he had some fifty accessions, and nearly as 
many conversions. Clay County Mission from September, 1856-7. 
This was a newly formed mission with six appointments (of which 
Terre Haute was one) and eighteen members. Sickness hindered 
him greatly in his work. At the Conference session held at E. 
Germantown in September, 1857, he received his ordination as dea- 
con. He served DeKalb Mission from September, 1857-9. In May, 
1858, he had a very severe illness, caused by taking cold, which laid 
him up for nearly a month. He reports a camp-meeting which he 
attended in August, 1858, at Fuhrman's, near Decatur, Ind., where 
many were converted. Twenty-seven adults were baptized by A. 
B. Schaefer, and 199 took part in the Lord's Supper. The second 
year on this mission was again a successful one in conversions, ac- 
cessions and spiritual quickening of the believers. He was or- 
dained elder at the session of September, 1859. He traveled White- 
water Circuit from September, 1859-60, with ten appointments. 
Montgomery Mission from. 1860-1. This year's work resulted in 
18 conversions. On this field a son was born to them, but died soon 
after. Marshall Circuit was in his care from September, 1861-63. 

199 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

He relates a trip he made with his family to Huntingburg camp- 
meeting. The weather being extremely hot, ague was prevalent. 
His two daughters took sick on their return with fever, and they 
were obliged to tarry at Warrington, near Tabor, Elberfeld Cir- 
cuit, where Margaret died at the age of sixteen years, and was 
laid to rest in Tabor Cemetery. She was her mother's support, 
who was weakly. Their return from here was a very sad one. The 
second year on Marshall work he introduced a Christmas enter- 
tainment with a decorated Christmas tree and presents for the 
children. He was progressive. He says, "Manifold were our ex- 
periences on this field. We had sickness and crosses to bear, we 
had testings and trials, but the Lord helped through them all, 
praise His holy name." On January 26, 1863, on his 48th birth- 
day, he prayed as follows : "I thank Thee, my God 'and heavenly 
Father, that up to this time Thou didst lead me with patience 
and love, and didst give manifestations unto many good things and 
deeds, both bodily and spiritually. I pray Thee that Thou wouldst 
pardon all my sins, mistakes, shortcomings and weaknesses, and 
give me a really grateful and loving heart, and strength from above 
that I may always love Thee, and faithfully serve Thee unto a 
blessed end, through Jesus Christ, my Saviour. Amen." From 
September, 1863-5, he served Evansville Mission, resulting in 11 
conversions and some accessions. From 1865-7 he was mission- 
ary in Louisville. He arrived October 7, and soon thereafter, after 
a general testimonial meeting, opportunity being given to unite 
with the Evangelical Association, 20 persons united, and the first 
church of the Evangelical Association was organized in Kentucky. 

M. was a good and faithful missionary. In February, 1866, 
he held a revival which resulted in 10 conversions and 13 acces- 
sions, and in the second year on this mission he held a meeting 
that lasted seven weeks, resulting in 30 conversions and accessions 
for which he greatly praised God. 

At the session held in Dayton, Ohio, September 4, 1867, he 
was newly elected Presiding Elder, and stationed on Whitewater 
District. He was also elected, for the first time, a delegate to 
General Conference, to be held in Pittsburg, Pa. Many successful 
quarterly meetings and camp-meetings were held during this term. 
In the third and fourth year he was considerably hindered by ill- 
ness. On September 8, 1871, he was re-elected Presiding Elder 
and assigned to Evansville District, and was again elected a dele- 
gate to General Conference, which convened at Naperville, 111. 
On arriving in Chicago he saw the terrible devastation of that 
great Chicago conflagration that consumed one-third of the city. 

200 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

This year he made a special missionary tour to Cairo, 111., and held 
blessed camp-meetings at Huntingbiirg, Olney and Marshall. This 
year he could fill all his appointments, the work expanded, there 
were many conversions on the district. The second year of this 
term he was again sick for three weeks, yet three successful camp- 
meetings were held. The third year was also a good one. At the 
Conference session, held September, 1875, he was assigned to Cin- 
cinnati Mission, was re-elected delegate to General Conference, to 
be held in Philadelphia. While there he visited the Centennial Ex- 
position buildings. He had the great pleasure to help establish 
the Japan Mission (1875) and to create the South Indiana Con- 
ference. He says, "At this General Conference $4,600.00 was se- 
cured by cash and subscriptions, mostly for Japan." On the way 
home, in company with Hoehn and Kaufman, he visited the United 
States Government buildings in Washington, D. C, also the White 
House and the Capitol. In September, 1876, at the Conference 
session, held at Bremen, when the Indiana Conference was divided, 
M. cast his lot with the new South Indiana Conference, and had 
Evansville Mission assigned to him. This was a good year, re- 
sulting in 21 conversions and 14 accessions. In September, 1877, 
he was returned to Evansville, and at this session the Conference 
time was changed to spring, so that this Conference year was only 
a half year. March, 1878, he was again returned to Evansville. 
March, 1879-81, he served Carmi ; March, 1881-84, he served 
Huntingburg, and his last field was Mt. Carmel, from 1884-7, when 
he located and made Mt. Carmel his home for the rest of his life. 

Thirty-two and one-half years he stood in the active ranks 
without intermission. He served country and city missions, cir- 
cuits, stations and districts with tact and acceptability. His labors 
were abundant and taxing to his frail body. God's people were edi- 
fied under his preaching, strengthened, grounded in love and es- 
tablished in the faith. His preaching was unctuous, scriptural, 
plain. In March, 1887, at the Huntingburg session, he was neces- 
sitated, owing to age, illness and depleted strength, to locate, which 
he did reluctantly, yet he was very grateful to God, who was so 
wonderfully with him throughout his ministry. In the summary 
he states that he traveled by railroad, steamboat, and per horse and 
buggy 75,330 miles, and preached 4,407 times. 

He was entrusted with various important and responsible of- 
fices, in the capacity of which he proved himself true, faithful and 
conscientious. He served eleven years as secretary. He was Con- 
ference treasurer of the South Indiana Conference from 1876-86. 
He was a true and earnest Christian, his characteristics which he in- 

201 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

herited were augmented in the service of God. He was fervent in 
spirit and effectual in his appeals to the people, and cordial in his 
intercourse with men, firm to his convictions, fearless in exposing 
sin and wrong-doers, opposed to pomp and hypocrisy in religion, 
popular amusements, intemperance and unrighteous conduct. He 
always tried to be at his post of duty. He peacefully died in Mt. 
Carmel, August 8, 1888, aged 75 years, 6 months and 12 days. The 
following is the Conference memorial report concerning his death 
and work : 

1. Resolved, That we lost in the departure of Bro. M. Mayer 
a decidedly faithful co-laborer in the service and calling of the 
Gospel, and that we lost in his departure a very reliable and true 
servant and a fatherly counsellor, and that we greatly realize the 
loss of him. 

2. Resolved, That although we deeply realize our loss, that 
we, nevertheless, rejoice in the knowledge that this worthy departed 
left a clear, definite witness of his godly consecration through his 
life in hardships and sorrows, and is now entered as a faithful 
servant into the joys of the Lord," 



CHARLES McCONNEHEY (1876-1907) 

Charles, the son of Wm. and Maggie McConnehey, was born 
in Monroe, Adams Co., Ind., Feb. 26, 1876, and died Oct. 16, 1907, 
in Decatur, Ind., and was buried in Decatur Maplewood Cemetery. 
In his loth year, while studying the Bible, he read, "The wages of 
sin is death," which Scripture passage made a very deep impres- 
sion upon him. At once he decided to accept Christ, and soon 
found a wonderful peace of soul. Six months later he united with 
the Evangelical Association in Decatur, Ind. He became active 
in the church, and occasionally would go out into the country, when 
but 17 or 18 years old, and conduct prayer-meetings. In the 
spring of '93 the Decatur class recommended him to the Confer- 
ence, and in April of this year the Conference licensed him as 
preacher on probation. From youth up he had an inclination to 
preach, and when yet a child would play church with children, him- 
self acting as preacher. 

When he was 4 years old his parents moved to Decatur. He 
graduated from the grammar schools, and later, for one term, at- 
tended the Angola Normal. He was of a studious disposition, but 
lacking means could not continue his school life as he desired. 
When he was out of school he became a lather in the summer and 
an egg-case maker in the winter. 

202 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

On Sundays, when others sought worldly pleasures, he went to 
the Evangelical Sunday-school and church in Decatur, to which his 
mother belonged. He was one of the faithful in attendance, and 
won the prize, a Bible, for regular attendance. This Bible was 
highly prized by him, and helped leading him to Christ. 

He served the following fields : Noblesville and Cicero with 

C. D. Rarey, '98-9; then Altamont, 111., '99-1900; then Edgerton 
Circuit, 1900-1 ; then Lancaster, 111., 1901-4 ; then Culver Circuit, 
'04-6. While at this latter place his health suddenly began to fail, 
and, although he was a stoutly built man, weighing 185 pounds, in 
3 months' time was reduced to 135 pounds. Here a great revival 
was conducted by his Presiding Elder, S. H. Baumgartner, dur- 
ing the second year, which resulted in about 100 conversions, all 
churches in the town participating. Dancing was broken up, and 
the dancing master said, "It will be 6 months before another dance 
can be had." Bro. McConnehey attended the meetings, but did no 
preaching, owing to his physical condition. Shortly before his 
breakdown, by urgency of his Presiding Elder, he took out insur- 
ance, which proved a great blessing to his wife and 3 children. 
At the close of this year he thought of locating, but when Con- 
ference was in session at West Salem, 111., he again applied for 
work, so anxious was he to continue. E. Germantown was as- 
signed to him April, '96, but he soon found that disease was fast 
depleting his vitality, and by the urgency of his doctor resigned 
his work in October, and moved with his family to Decatur. He 
then took up collecting insurance, thinking that outdoor life would 
help him. On the 15th of October he was out collecting, but that 
night he suddenly collapsed and died the next morning. He was 
ordained deacon April, 1900, and as elder in 1904. 

A. B. Haist had charge of the funeral service, assisted by C. 

D. Rarey, A. Van Camp and others. He was married to Mollie 
Dienst of Louisville, Ky., who, with 3 children, survived him. 

His preaching was practical and usually interwoven with con- 
siderable poetry, sayings of other men, and anecdotes. He won 
many souls for Christ. He was earnest in his work for the Lord, 
and had a passion for souls. His decease came all too soon. 



HENRY E. MEYERS (1864-1902) 

This brother was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, May 29th, 1864, 
and died in Oregon, Mo., March 4th, 1902, where he is also buried. 
He received a common school education and early in life gave his 
heart to God and united w'th the Evangelical Association. He 

203 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

was a member of the Salem class, Edgerton charge, where, as a 
young man, he heard and heeded the call of God to the ministry. 
His class duly recommended him, and the Indiana Conference 
licensed him in 1887. He was sent to Ft. Recovery Circuit. He 
was timid and reserved, which, with his limited education, made 
his beginning in the work very difficult. However, he staid by the 
work and developed into a very useful man. In '88-9 he served 
Defiance Circuit; '89-90, E. Germantown. He then located for one 
year, moving to Kansas. In '91 he entered the Kansas Confer- 
ence, serving the following fields: '91-3, Winston; '93-5, Car- 
thage; '95-7, Newton; '97-01, Derby, and '01-2, Oregon Mission, 
Two weeks before the session of the Kansas Conference in '02 he 
passed away. 

Rev. M. C. Platz, his Presiding Elder, said of him, "He w^as 
an earnest and conscientious preacher, a faithful pastor, ever try- 
ing to lead souls to Christ, He was conservative and cautious in 
his dealings, not given to trifling, either in conversation or in 
business. His conduct commanded the respect of all." 

He married Adell Adair, and was the father of four chil- 
dren, all of whom survived him. His illness was brief, and death 
found him at his post of duty, busily engaged in collecting money 
for the Conference, His Presiding Elder, M. C, Platz. officiated 
at the funeral. 



SAMUEL MIESSE (1806-1883) 

Bro. Miesse, son of Jacob and Katherine Miesse, was born in 
Reading, Pa., Feb. 2, 1806, and departed this life Aug. 22, 1883, 
in Greenville, 0., where he is also buried. He was christened as 
an infant by Pastor W. Hendel of the German Reformed Church, 
and confirmed by Pastor Meier, Later realizing his unsaved con- 
dition, he sought and found salvation through faith in Christ, 
and then united with the Evangelical Association, He became a 
faithful member of the church. Hearing the call of God to preach 
"Christ crucified," he yielded, and, on recommendation of his class, 
was licensed as preacher on probation in his 22d year by the East 
Pennsylvania Conference. 

Some time later he entered the active work and was quite 
successful, being able to lead precious souls to Christ. The ex- 
posure to all kinds of weather and the hardships of pioneer work 
impaired his health to such an extent that he was obliged to lo- 
cate in '42, 

204 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

He re-entered the active work in '43 and served Lancaster; 
'44-6, Mohawk Circuit; '46-7, Syracuse Mission in New York; '47- 
8, Lake Circuit. In '48 he located, due to impaired health and tem- 
poral affairs. He was ordained deacon in Allentown, Pa., March, 
'42, and as elder in the same Conference in March, '45. 

In '53 he moved to Greenville, 0., where he made his home 
with is brother. Dr. Gabriel Miesse. In '81 he became paralyzed, 
which affected his mind more than his body. Although he was 
unable to recognize his loved ones he did not fail to know his God, 
and his interest in Him became more intensified, continuing in 
prayer and constant communion with Him. His friends verified 
"that in all of his afflictions he never said anything that was un- 
christian." But on Aug. 22, just before his decease, he rallied for 
a few moments and said, "Jesus, bless my soul," and then in 
quietness passed away. He was never married. He was survived 
by 2 brothers, Dr. Gabriel and John. 

Jacob Miller, pastor, wrote "that his whole conduct was lov- 
able, friendly, humble, and that he found great satisfaction in the 
Lord's work. Rev. Miller had charge of the funeral. M. W. Stef- 
fey preached the sermon, and the city pastors served as pall- 
bearers. 



SAMUEL K. MIESSE (1816-1882) 

This brother was born in Berks Co., Pa., March 4, 1816, and 
passed away, Noblesville, Ind., Sept. 18, 1882, and was entombed 
in the Noblesville Cemetery. He was one of 16 children. He was 
married to Phoebe Bohner, Nov., '37. Six children were born to 
them ; his wife and 4 children survived him. He was converted 
to God in Pennsylvania in his 13th year, and united with the 
Evangelical Association. He was faithful in the service of Christ 
as a youth and made commendable progress. In '39 he moved to 
Fairfield Co., 0., and continued his Christian activities. In '40 his 
class, having given him a recommendation to the Western Confer- 
ence (now in Ohio), licensed him as preacher on probation, and 
assigned him to Sandusky Circuit. In '43 he again located, con- 
tinuing thus until his demise. In '59 he moved with his family 
to Hamilton Co., Ind., and later moved into Noblesville. 

His pastor at the time of his death said of him, "He occa- 
sionally preached. His sermons were clear, simple and earnest, 
which was evidenced by conversions that followed his preaching 
in former years. Miesse loved the church of his choice, and was 
always willing to support her, her institutions and doctrines. He 

205 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

especially insisted upon the true and tried methods of church 
work." The Conference record shows that he bequeathed $500 to 
the General Missionary Society. He was the chief instigator of 
our former work in Noblesville, and kept things moving along 
while he lived and could attend. But after his death the Society 
was in a condition like that of a wagon wheel with the hub gone. 
He was modest and unassuming, but sociable and indulgent with 
his family. Jos. Fisher and D. Martz officiated at his funeral. 



JACOB MILLER (1833-1891) 

This brother was born Feb. 1, 1833, in Merzheim, Landau, 
Bavaria, Germany, and died in Dayton, 0., Oct. 9, 1891. He was 
survived by his wife, 3 sons and 2 daughters. He was deprived of 
his parents early in life, which made a very deep impression on his 
mind, and somewhat tended towards melancholia. 

HIS CONVERSION AND WORK IN THE CHURCH 

In '53 he came to America, arriving April 5th in Evansville, 
Ind., at the home of his brother-in-law. He began to attend the 
services of the Evangelical Association, and under Jos. Fisher's 
administration was brought under conviction and led into deep 
repentance. After a long and severe struggle he found Christ pre- 
cious to his soul, and then united with the Evangelical Associa- 
tion. He now became active in the church, won the confidence 
and esteem of the members, and was duly recommended by them 
for license to preach. In '64, under Mel. Mayer, he received an 
exhorter's license, as then customary, and served acceptably and 
successfully in this capacity for 2 years. 

In Sept., '66, when the Conference was held in Evansville, 
he received license as preacher on probation, and, with John Ber- 
ger, was assigned to Mt. Carmel Circuit. In '67-8 he was sent to 
Carmi Circuit. In '68-9 he served Clay Co. Mission ; '69-70, Mar- 
shall Circuit, which now included Clay Co. Mission. In '70-2 he 
served Waupecong (now Bunker Hill) with blessed results. In 
'72-3 he was partly disabled by lameness in his feet, but took 
Wabash work. He labored under great bodily difficulties and col- 
lected money for a new church building. 

The church was built and dedicated Aug. 3, 1873. In Sept. 
of this year he was returned to Wabash work and had 21 acces- 
sions. In '73-4 he served Shelby Mission in Illinois. In '75 he 
was assigned to Wanatah Circuit, and served it 2 years and 7 
months. Conference being changed from September to April. Dur- 

206 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ing this time 41 united with the church. In '78-80 he was as- 
signed to Newville Circuit. Here he did not succeed so well, due 
to language and other hindrances. In '80-3 he served Montgomery 
Circuit and built the church in Phillipsburg the first year. In 
'83-6 he served Winchester Circuit, and had 47 conversions and 
32 accessions. In '87-8, Ft. Wayne, with 14 accessions. In '88-9 
he served St. Mary's charge, and here ended his active ministerial 
work. 

Judging by the results of his labor, Bro. Miller was quite suc- 
cessful. His sermons, his biographer said, "were not made up 
artistically, nor so delivered, but they were biblical, clear and 
thorough." His sermons were somewhat long and tiresome, but he 
was sincere and earnest, and often with tears pleaded with saint 
and sinner to live better lives. As a father and husband he was 
indulgent and much concerned for the comfort of his family. 

FINAL LOCATION 

In April, '89, he located in Dayton, O. Here he clerked for 
a while, but later resumed his former work as a cooper, continuing 
in it until shortly before his death. He felt his end was drawing 
nigh. He often was under great distress in body, but bore the 
sufferings with patience and trust in God's abounding grace. With 
full assurance of endless salvation he departed into eternal life. 

He was ordained deacon Sept., '68, and as elder in '70. C. F. 
Hansing, P. E., preached his funeral sermon, assisted by his pas- 
tor, C. C. Beyrer, and M. L. Scheidler and G. F. Spreng. 



PHILEMON MILLER (1825-1894) 

Philemon was born in Fairfield Co., 0., March 7, 1825, and 
died in Altamont, 111., April 26, 1894. He was survived by his 
wife and son. He grew to manhood at his birthplace, and enjoyed 
the common rural school education. In '48, under the labors of 
Abraham Leonard of the Ohio Conference of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation, he was awakened to a sense of his need and led to repent- 
ance and conscious salvation. He then also joined the Evangeli- 
cal Association and remained true to her until death. 

Being faithful to God and the church he was elected class- 
leader, and, later, as exhorter, in which capacity he served a num- 
ber of years. He married Hannah Powell and moved to Fayette 
Co., 111., where he engaged in farming. Also here he took an ac- 
tive part in religious work, and in Sept., '66, being recommended 
by the class at this place, the Indiana Conference licensed him as 

207 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

preacher on probation. Tn Sept., '67, he was sent to Mt. Carmel 
Circuit. In '68 he moved back on his farm at Camp Creek, near 
Brownstown, 111., where he served acceptably as class-leader and 
as Sunday-school superintendent. In Feb., '94, he quit farming 
and moved to Altamont, 111., where he died. Rev. J. H. Schnitz 
officiated at the funeral. Interment was made in Zion Church Cem- 
etery of Camp Creek Circuit. 



JACOB MODE (1836-1886) 

Rev. Jacob Mode was born in Rhein-Baiern, Germany, Sept. 
25, 1836. His parents were loyal members of the Lutheran Church 
and reared him in their faith. He obtained a fair German educa- 
tion and a good Bible training, which proved to be of great value 
to him in later life. He came to America in 1852, at the age of 16 
years, landing at New Orleans, and went per river boat up the 
Mississippi and Ohio Rivers to Cincinnati, Ohio. Here he re- 
mained a while, and learned the shoemaker trade. A few years 
later he removed to the town of Harrison, on the State line of 
Ohio and Indiana, where he resumed his trade as shoemaker and 
continued in it until 1861. He then moved out on a farm about 
three miles from Harrison, where he remained until the latter part 
of 1867, when he moved to Indianapolis, Ind. In March, 1868, he 
left Indianapolis, and settled on a farm three miles north of Gray- 
ville, Illinois. 

He was married to Mary Kolb in 1861, and it was near Gray- 
ville that they, for the first time, had the opportunity of hearing 
missionaries of the Evangelical Association. They were very fav- 
orably impressed with the preaching of the missionary, the sainted 
Rev. John Berger, who was the first of the preachers of the Evan- 
gelical Association who visited this community, and they were soon 
convinced of the error of their ways, and keenly realized the need 
of a thorough change of heart and life. After a short while, un- 
der the labors of the tireless Rev. J. M. Kronmiller, they were fully 
brought into the light and soundly converted to God, and then also 
at once united with the Evangelical Association, in which he after- 
wards took a deep interest. 

HIS CALL AND WORK AS A MINISTER 

It was not very long until the call of the Lord was heard 
by Brother Mode, and he gladly responded. He continued in this 
work for 12 years, first receiving an appointment as a preacher 
en probation under the Presiding Elder in 1874. He served the 

208 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

following- fields of labor faithfully, tactfully and with success in 
the old South Indiana Conference: Lake Creek, 1876-8, then Lake 
Creek and Murphyboro combined in 1879. Harrison in 1880; Ev- 
ansville in 1881 ; Mt. Caimel in 1883. In 1882, '84, '86, he served 
in the local relation and died October 28, 1886. He was survived 
by his wife (who has joined him since in heaven) and seven chil- 
dren ; five preceded him in death. His funeral sermon was preached 
by Rev. F. Schweitzer, then Presiding Elder, and his body was in- 
terred in the Grayville Cemetery, awaiting the resurrection of 
the just. 

His preaching was in a simple style, earnest, moderate in 
speed. He was always self-possessed. His statements were Script- 
ural, and he fearlessly exposed and assailed sin. Those who heard 
him, testify that his preaching was unctuous and manifested a deep 
insight into Scripture. He wrote most of his sermons, but deliv- 
ered them extemporaneously, doing this for clearness of expres- 
sion and for the improvement of his language. As a revivalist he 
was moderately successful. He was quite a good singer and did 
lead out well in congregational singing. His last sermon was 
preached shortly before his demise in Grayville, using the 23rd 
Psalm for a text; he was then quite indisposed, but, as his friend. 
Rev. F. Dauner, said, "He preached a powerful sermon." The 
memorial report of the South Indiana Conference respecting his 
life is as follows, showing that he was highly esteemed by his asso- 
ciate ministers : "That in the death of Jacob Mode the Conference 
lost a faithful, pious, active and successful co-worker." 

It is to be regretted that not more of his life-work can be 
definitely stated. He was a man who kept a faithful record of his 
work and experiences, but soon after his death his widow had the 
sad misfortune of having all his records burned in a fire that 
threatened to consume the whole house. 

This brother experienced many hardships in his itinerant life. 
He served his appointments from home except three years, and this 
fact necessitated him to make long and dangerous trips at times. 
Once he came near losing his life while on an itinerant trip, trying 
to cross the Little Wabash River at Massilon, 111. The water was 
frozen over with ice thick enough that he thought he could cross 
with safety, but the ice suddenly broke and he with his horse got 
down so deep that his feet were in the ice-cold water, and after he 
got out and rode home with wet feet both he and his horse were 
badly frozen. This incident occurred about 30 miles away from 
home. Not a few ministers experienced the dangerous thing of 
trying to cross the Little Wabash River bottoms when out of its 

209 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

banks between West Salem and Little Wabash class on one side 
and Enterprise on the other. A number of them had hair-breadth 
escapes trying to cross the river. Rev. Jacob Keiper once got into 
quicksand and came near losing his life. W. H. Luehring, trying 
to cross, lost his horse by drowning and barely saved himself. 
Three of the old pioneer preachers once crossed the river at Mas- 
silon when out of its banks ; they were warned by the citizens not 
to undertake it, calling it ''foolhardy." But they did. Then a 
number of citizens concluded they must be horse-thieves to venture 
across, and a posse was organized and followed, and overtook them 
quite a ways on the other side, and asked them "who they were 
and what their business was." When these Gospel heroes told them 
who and what they were, they were allowed to go in peace, the 
posse saying to them, "We thought you must be horse-thieves be- 
cause you were determined to cross the over-flooded river." 



ANDREW NICOLAI (1814- . . . . ) 

Andrew, son of Philip and Martha Nicolai, was born Bir- 
kenau, Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, Feb. 5th, 1814. His par- 
ents were of the Lutheran faith and reared their children in alll 
religious strictness. In their locality it was considered disgraceful 
to kneel in prayer and to sing religious songs out of the church. 
In the spring of 1833 they came to America and settled in Green 
Village, Franklin Co., Pa. Here they came in contact with people 
of the United Brethren Church, who showed themselves friendly 
when they sustained a great loss by fire. They began to attend 
their services and came under evangelical preaching. Moving to 
Chambersburg, Pa., Andrew's father helped to construct a rail- 
road. While tunneling beneath the ground, one day, the earth 
caved in, killing his father's co-laborer. This had a great effect 
upon him, and soon led to his conversion and that of his wife in 
a United Brethren meeting. Upon removing to Vandersall's set- 
tlement in Ohio they united with the Evangelical Association. 

Andrew, the oldest of their ten children, was catechized and 
confirmed at the age of 13, and attended school until 14 years of 
age. He then engaged in making tiles with his father and to cut 
timber. When he arrived in this country he pursued the trade of 
a carpenter. While crossing the ocean, in which his life was in 
jeopardy, he promised God that he would live better if He would 
grant him a safe voyage. His sea resolution was neither forgotten 
nor carried out, for he held that "there is none righteous, no not 

210 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

one." No man can be righteous. However, by searching the 
Scriptures and praying he discovered that there were righteous 
as well as unrighteous men, and the light began to dawn upon his 
darkened soul. His parents, who had found Christ, came now 
to Covington, where he lived, to lead him to Christ. He heard 
Rev. J. G. Zinser, one of our preachers, preach a sermon on "Work 
Out Your Salvation with Fear and Trembling," This sermon 
brought him to repentance. One Sunday night, in 1839, he went, 
with a heavy heart, to a prayer-meeting in his father's house, sat 
down by his brother-in-law, who was class-leader, and while they 
were engaged in prayer a strange, conscious faintness came over 
him, having a blissful sensation. Falling to the floor he won- 
dered what this could be. It could not be a swoon — it must be 
conversion ! Assurance grew stronger, bliss more complete, un- 
til he sprang to his feet, leaping for joy and praising God with a 
loud voice. Everything seemed new and fresh. Reaching home, 
he opened both the doors in his house, walking from one to the 
other, praising God with a loud voice. He was too happy to sleep, 

HIS MINISTRY 

God's voice was soon calling him to the Gospel ministry, and 
on May the 28th, 1840, he received exhorter's license. In this 
capacity he served with much joy and profit. In 1842 he and his 
father, together with their families, moved to Putnam Co., Ind,, 
where they settled on tim.ber land. After earning enough money 
he purchased a 40-acre farm, upon which he built a small log 
cabin. Meanwhile the call of God grew more urgent, but two 
things hindered greatly, lack of means and the leaving of his fam- 
ily in the backwoods. His father agreed to look after his family 
in part, at least, so he borrowed a horse and rode to Conference 
at Flat Rock, Ohio, May, 1843, He received license to preach and 
was received into the itinerancy. 

He was assigned to Mt, Carmel Circuit, with C, Lintner as 
preacher-in-charge. His first appointment was Big Creek, near 
Marshall, 111, The rains were falling quite heavily at this time of 
the year, but he managed to keep himself dry with a sheep's pelt. 
Arriving at Terre Haute. Ind., he essayed to cross the Wabash 
River, but the ferry-man said that it could not be crossed until 
the morning on account of the low water in the marshes on the 
west side of the river. This was Saturday night. He had to put 
up at a hotel, which cost him $1.00, and in the morning was fer- 
ried across the river at a cost of 75 cents. This was a great out- 
lay of money for so poor a man, and caused him no little worry, 

211 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

He followed the National Pike to Livingstone, then proceeded south 
four miles to cross Big Creek. Here he learned that there was 
great danger on account of quicksand in the stream, so he pro- 
ceeded 4 miles up the creek to a bridge, came down the other side, 
and finally reached Manshart, where a few brethren had gathered 
to hear their new preacher, Monday he traveled 40 miles down 
the Wabash to Dundore's and Shreffler's ; Wednesday he preached 
at Long's ; Thursday he reached Mt. Carmel, where he rested a 
few days, only to retrace his way back home, stopping and preach- 
ing at all the points on the way. 

After 8 days he started back to Dundore's, where a camp- 
meeting was to be held. It was a great meeting; sinners came 
from distances of 40 miles to find peace and salvation. While on 
his first trip he came to a German settler who was trying to cut a 
door and window in his cabin, and was making such hard work of 
it that Nicolai said, "Let me do that for you, seeing I am left- 
handed." He was astonished that a "Pfarrer" could have such skill 
and Nicolai invited him to this camp-meeting, to which he came 
and was saved. When he came to the camp-meeting and offered 
Dundore money for his entertainment, which was not accepted, he 
exclaimed, "Why, these are truly remarkable people ; I never saw 
the like." 

Upon the request of his Presiding Elder, J. J. Kopp, Hunt- 
ingburg, Ind., was taken up as a new appointment. J. Trometer, 
a local preacher, dwelt here and had paved the way for our church. 
Glorious meetings were held here, and over 60 members were re- 
ceived into the church. At his return from a four-week trip he 
found that death had entered his home and had taken away his be- 
loved and beautiful daughter, who was already buried. This near- 
ly broke his heart, for he was very much attached to his child. 

In 1844 Nicolai was returned to Mt. Carmel Circuit, with G. 
G. Platz as junior preacher. His father helped him move to one 
end of his circuit, using a one-horse wagon. His wife walked near- 
ly all the way, and on trying to cross a stream, over which a log 
had fallen, she lost her footing and was plunged into the stream. 
This experience cost her a few days' serious illness. Nicolai was 
greatly hindered during this year on account of malaria, and often 
he would go to his appointments when he was hardly able to sit 
upon his horse. One time he became so weakened that he could 
go no further, and, tying his horse, walked to the first house. A 
young woman who was spinning saw him come, and seeing his 
fever-frenzied eyes, thought him insane and ran out the back 
door. He sat down and waited, and soon a young man came and 

212 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

inquired whether he were not sick. They put him to bed, sum- 
moned a physician, who g-ave him a treatment that fearfully sali- 
vated him, which somewhat impaired his memory. Hearing of his 
illness, some of the brethren came after his horse, and when he 
was sufficiently recovered conveyed him to his home. As soon 
as possible he was at his post again. 

At one time he received the apology of a blacksmith who had 
shown him uncivil treatment in his home. While in Mt. Carmel 
he and Brother Platz were holding meetings, which a certain 
blacksmith attended. Being invited to the home by the good wife, 
they called to see him. When he came in, begrimed with soot, they 
greeted him with a "How do you do?" to which he responded, 
"Hum! How do I do? We are to love God supremely and our 
neighbors as ourselves, and not as you insolent fellows do. You 
condemn everybody." After some exchange the preachers left, 
but before long this blacksmith was converted and made apologies. 

When his time at Mt. Carmel was up, according to the limit 
set by the church, he took his family, household goods and all to 
Conference, 20 miles north of Chicago, and before he reached Chi- 
cago his wagon that conveyed all his effects broke down. He had 
the same repaired at Chicago, only to have another break-down 
ere he reached the place of Conference session. Bishop Seybert 
happened to be with him at the time, and rode on, taking Nico- 
lai's family in his own rig, and deposited them at Ebingers, whom 
he also sent to assist Nicolai with his broken wagon. At last they 
reached the place of Conference. At least they lost nothing by 
this premature action, for they were sent on north to Milwaukee 
Mission. In 1846 he located for one year, after which he was sent 
south to Dubois Circuit. It was a year of great prosperity and suc- 
cess, Rockpoit especially being fruitful. The year following found 
him at the same field with equal success, Posey Co., and Maple 
Grove at Huntingburg were especially prosperous appointments. 
The Maple Grove camp-ground was purchased this year from the 
Government for $50.00. A certain parson aided greatly to the 
spread of the Gospel in an indirect way. He came to the home of 
one of his parishioners in a drunken condition to bury a child. He 
was put to bed to sober up, and when he arose the sun was setting, 
and he, thinking that the sun was rising, said, "Good Morning." 
This so disgusted the people that they were ready to hear the Gos- 
pel from sober men. Nicolai attended the funeral service, and an- 
nounced at the conclusion that he would preach from that same 
text that very evening at Schawley's. Reutepoehlers, the bereft 
family, attended the service, received new light and were soon 

213 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

converted to God. This made a large entry for the Gospel in this 
neighborhood. 

In 1850 he had a narrow escape. Trying to cross a swollen 
stream while on his trip through Marshall Circuit he found when 
he came to the middle of the river that his horse was sinking in 
quicksand. With greatest difficulty he and his horse reached the 
shore, each swimming out for themselves as best they could. In 
the process his sheep pelt slipped half-way off the saddle, frighten- 
ing the animal, which ran away. At last it came to a bayou, and, 
fearing quicksand, halted. Nicolai crept up and recaptured the 
frightened beast. He also fished his saddle-bag out of the river, 
and then remounted and rode back to his brother's home. Upon 
finding no one at home, he entered, made a fire, and, having dried 
his clothes, proceeded on his way rejoicing. Despite the hindrances 
it was a year of great success. 

In the years 1851-3 he served Hamilton Mission ; 1852, he 
became a charter member of the Indiana Conference ; 1853-4 he 
served St. Mary's with considerable success. At Newville, in the 
home of Emmanuel Niederhauser, he celebrated a great victory. 
Niederhauser was saved himself, and his house became a place of 
preaching and prayer. At one time such power was manifest that 
all were thrown to the floor, a dance in the neighborhood was broken 
up, in order to discover what the commotion might mean. In the 
next nine years he served the following fields with success : De- 
Kalb Circuit, St. Mary's Circuit, Fulton Circuit, Berrien and 
Bremen. 

At the organization of the Michigan Conference he was elected 
the first Presiding Elder of the new Conference, in which capacity 
he served eight years. After several years of service as a pas- 
tor he located in 1876, finding a home in Norvell, Jackson Co., 
Michigan. 

One night, while still on the district, he lost his way in the 
woods. His horse suddenly came upon a fence in the timber, and 
could advance no farther. He essayed to turn his rig around and 
retrace his way when his horse tripped and fell, breaking the har- 
ness and getting its hind legs under a pine root, and lay there ab- 
solutely helpless. He loosened the rig and helped his horse get out 
of the tangle, but was not able to mend the harness in the dark. 
So he tied his horse to one tree and the shafts of his cart to another, 
while he wrapped himself in his buffalo robe and spent the night in 
his cart. Many such experiences happened to him and to others of 
the pioneers. 

214 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



HIS PERSONALITY 

He has been described as a man of 5 feet 9 inches tall; bald- 
headed, round and fidl of face; witty, ready at repartee, but not 
boisterous. He was genial, sometimes almost taciturn. He had 
a merry twinkle in his eyes, giving one the idea that he was laugh- 
ing more with the eyes than the mouth. At one Conference ses- 
sion, when Bishop Esher delivered a masterful ordination ser- 
mon, in which he emphasized the personal assurance to the call- 
ing of the ministry, Nicolai was asked how he liked the sermon. 
"Humph !" he replied, "if I could preach like that I would not doubt 
my call any more, either." 

As a preacher he was biblical, theological, a genius at exposi- 
tion, not of an emotional type, nor yet very enthusiastic, but al- 
ways instructive and convincing. He was regarded by some to be 
the most profound theologian in the Conference at his time. 

The exact facts relative to his demise could not be ascertained, 
but he died at Noivell, Jackson Co., Michigan, in the triumphs of 
faith. He had been married to Barbara Schafer, and was the father 
of twelve children. 

He was a great man of God and did a noble work for the In- 
diana Conference in her early days. 



Rev. D. 



D. S. OAKES (1837-1906) 

S. Oakes had an interesting and eventful life. He 
was born Sept, 5, 1837, in Dau- 
phin Co., Pa., about one mile 
north of Union Deposit, on the 
Swatara River, a few miles from 
the birthplace of Bishop Jos. 
Long, and died in Ft. Wayne, 
Ind., May, 1906, and survived 
by his wife, 4 sons and 1 daugh- 
ter. His body was interred in 
the Kendallville Cemetery. J. 
H. Evans had charge of the fu- 
neral and delivered the sermon. 
Quite a number of other minis- 
ters were present and partici- 
pated in the memorial services. 
His father's name was John, and 
mother's maiden name Mary 
Eshelman. His father came, 
215 



J^ 


^ 


A 
I 




% 3" 




^ 




^^H^'' \ 


^j 




•fit 




^^ 


Hl^^ ^^m^ 


■1 



D. S. OAKES 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

with his parents from Ireland to America when six years old, 
and settled on a farm near Blairville, Indiana County, Pa., later 
known as "Oakes Knob." After John had grown np he followed 
Thomas, his brother, to Lancaster County, Pa., where he married 
Mary Eshelman from near Elizabethtown, Pa. Her ancestors 
were early settlers in Pennsylvania, who originally came from 
Europe, probably Switzerland. The grandparents of D. S. Oakes, 
on his father's side, were Wesleyan Methodist, from the early 
introduction of Wesley's doctrines into Ireland. Frequent relig- 
ious services were held in their home. His mother's parents were 
German Baptists, to which faith they adhered with great tenacity. 
His father was converted in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Realizing the expediency of knowing German, he insisted that all 
his children should learn to speak it, which they did. Father John 
Oakes died a Methodist as a licensed exhorter. His death occurred 
near Elkhart, Ind., in 1855, to which place he had moved in the 
spring of 1850. His wife died in 1862 at the same place. 

HIS WORK IN YOUTH 

D. S. was the youngest of seven children, having three broth- 
ers and three sisters. He never attended German school, nor had 
any private instructions, except what he received at home, and by 
asking questions of German men. Hence his German reading, 
writing and public speaking was self-acquired, and quite perfect. 
As to his boyhood days he says : "I, to my knowledge, manifested 
no extraordinary traits or talents, but was full of life and anima- 
tion, healthy and robust, loving play. In my studies I never was in 
the lowest ranks in my classes." He never attended any but com- 
mon country district schools. . From childhood he was accustomed 
to work, helping to take care of his father's stock, making tons of 
hay annually, cutting grass with the scythe, raking hay with hand- 
rakes, cradling and binding wheat and oats, and tramping out 
wheat and oats on the barn floor, which was very tiresome work. 
At the age of 15 years he was made a full hand in work. He was 
a vigorous, ambitious and strong youth, willing to work early and 
late for 50 to 75 cents per day. He was also a great reader at 
spare time. 

HIS CONVERSION 

After his father's death, being but eighteen years old, former 
restrictions were considerably relaxed, and he says, "He formed 
some very insalubrious associations which had a bad effect on him." 
On Dec. 31, 1858, he went to Salem (Smith's) Church, where a 
watch-night meeting was held. Rev. Jos. Fisher preached. Oakes 

216 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

was deeply smitten with the truth. The meeting was continued, 
and he frequently attended the evening services. He says, "The 
arrows of conviction sank deeper and deeper, until the evening of 
the 17th of January, while there kept ringing in my ears, 'Now 
or never, now or never.' " He went to the altar of prayer, five 
nights in succession, sometimes moved to deep emotions, and then 
again realizing a hard, callous feeling. He says that if he had 
done as he often felt, he would not have gone out a second time, 
but when he started he determinedly vowed to God never to give 
up, for it was a matter of principle with him. On the fifth even- 
ing, Saturday, Jan. 21, he went to church with a fixed determina- 
tion that that night the conflict must come to an end. He says, 
"There was a terrible struggle during the altar service." He 
would cry out, "I will not leave here till pardon is obtained, till 
victory is won." But something repeatedly would say, "Yes, you 
will, yes, you will." "The meeting will close," "the people will 
leave," "the lights will be extinguished," "the house will be locked." 
These sayings he thought were of Satan. But Oakes was deter- 
mined on finding pardon that night, and said to himself, "Though 
the meeting closes, etc., yea, if I die here, I will not leave here until 
I find pardon." Then the worst struggle began. Up to this time 
he was afraid of doing or saying improper things, which greatly 
hampered him, but now he became indifferent to these things, and 
oblivious to his environments. True, the congregation was dis- 
missed, most of the people left, but a few, Geo. Smith and oth- 
ers, remained. Oakes remained on his knees praying until 11 
o'clock, when, as he says, "Suddenly the clouds rolled away, the 
storm subsided, the billows quieted, and a calm peace and joy pos- 
sessed me, without emotions or demonstrations." 

HIS WORK IN THE CHURCH AS LAYMAN 

When an opportunity was given, on Jan. 27, 1859, to become 
"dcntified with a church, he felt it an imperative duty to join the 
Evangelical Association. This was a surprise to many of his 
friends because the circuit was exclusively German. In the 
spring, Jos. Fisher called a meeting for the purpose of organizing a 
Sunday-school. D. S. Oakes was elected as superintendent, the 
responsibility of which seemed impossible for him to assume, but 
he consented, after much persuasion. 

SOME EARLY CONFLICTS 

Brother Oakes had many spiritual conflicts after conversion. 
In the spring of 1859 glowing reports of rich gold discoveries 

217 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

came from Pike's Peak, and he, with others, got the "Pike's 
Peak fever." Young- men who joined church with Oakes insisted 
on his going with them, and he felt it his duty for their sakes. 
He was also urged by his brother Benjamin, who offered him the 
money. But his mother vehemently objected, because he and Ben- 
jamin were her youngest children, and the only ones at home. He 
yielded to her wishes, but "Oh," he says, "what a conflict." The 
second conflict came when the Civil War broke out. He felt he 
should enlist. Mother again opposed him, pleading with tears, 
"Stay with me until I die, then you can go where you will." Stay- 
ing at home became an intense struggle ; at times he could scarcely 
restrain himself from going, but a sense of duty to his mother 
prevailed, knowing that his going would break her heart, and 
bring her with sorrow to the grave. During the summers from 
1859-1862, he worked at carpentering, and in the winter he taught 
school. In 1861-2 he was assessor of the township. In August, 
1861, he was elected class-leader, which office he filled acceptably 
one year. Up to this election he wholly exercised in English, but 
now being leader of mostly Germans, he, with determination, took 
up the German and with perseverance he soon succeeded. 

HIS CALL TO THE MINISTRY AND MINISTERIAL WORK 

He had a conviction from childhood up that some day he would 
be called to the ministry. During the summer of 1862 this convic- 
tion deepened ; the call became imperative. The response was in- 
wardly, "Lord, I am ready whenever the way is fully opened." 
About the middle of June his brother Benjamin sent for him at 
Elkhart, with the intelligence that his mother was seriously ill. 
He laid his tools aside never to take them up again as implements 
of permanent employment. He stayed with his mother until her 
demise, July 1. Rev. M. Speck, junior preacher of the circuit, first 
spoke to him about his call to the ministry, which he frankly ac- 
knowledged. Later Rev. A. Schaefer, preacher-in-charge, spoke 
similarly to him. He was perfectly acquiescent to the Divine will, 
believing that God would bring all things to pass as He willed it. 

Brother Oakes preached his first sermon, Aug. 24, 1862, in 
Wahl's school-house, near the present Smith Church. His text was 
"Watch and Pray," etc.. Matt. 26: 41. The week following, Bro. 
Schaefer got out his recommendation, which was signed by nearly 
all members of his class and those of the other classes of the Salem 
(Smith's) society. On Friday of the same week the Quarterly 
Conference voted him a license as preacher on probation, signed 
by Jos. Fisher,. P. E., and A. B. Schaefer, P. C. At this time the 

218 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Discipline allowed the Quarterly Conference to issue licenses. In 
September he went to East Germantown, where the Annual Con- 
ference was held. Bishop Jos. Long presided. Here he was re- 
ceived into the intinerancy, and was assigned to the extensive 
Fulton Circuit with Michael Alsbach as preacher-in-charge. Their 
circuit extended into eleven counties from four miles west of 
Plymouth, south-eastward to six miles south of Warsaw, then 
south-westward to seven miles south of Lafayette, then westward 
to Medaryville, and back to the starting point, preaching daily, 
except Saturdays. It took three weeks for one to make the round. 
Roads were bad, conveniences poor, preaching was mostly in cab- 
ins and school-houses, the hardships were many, sleeping accom- 
modations poor. Yet these early pioneers murmured little, were 
happy and contented in the Lord's work. 

In 1863 he was appointed to Huntington Mission, with seven 
appointments. In 1864 he was ordained deacon by Bishop J. J. 
Esher at Indianapolis, where Conference was held, and was then 
sent to St. Mary's Circuit. In 1865 Lafayette Mission was as- 
signed to him; the year was one of severe trials, the membership 
being very small, the outlook discouraging. In the spring of 1866, 
by invitation, he went to Danville, 111., where he held a successful 
meeting and organized a society, building a small church that sum- 
mer. In 1866 he was ordained elder by Bishop J. J. Esher. The 
Conference was held in Evansville, Ind. He was assigned to St. 
Mary's Circuit and Huntington Mission jointly with J. A. Maier, 
Jr., colleague. 

HIS MARRIAGE 

On Oct. 16, 1866, he was married to Mary C. Scott of Deca- 
tur, Ind. Speaking of their beginning he says, "Clothing and gro- 
ceries were, at this time, extremely high. Ordinary calico, 50 
cents per yard, coffee, 50 to 60 cents per pound; brown sugar, 12 
to 15 cents per pound ; flour, $8.00 per cwt. ; all else in proportion." 
They began housekeeping with $60, which she had, saved by her 
guardian. His salary for the first two years was $100 per year, 
and third and fourth years $125. At this time it was customary 
to report at Conference the surplus salary and divide with those 
who fell short, which he did several times. Now with a wife he 
was entitled to $250, if he got it. Thus we see the spirit of self- 
denial was great even in his pioneer days. 

In 1867 he received Elkhart Circuit, with J. K. Troyer as col- 
league. Both families moved into a small parsonage on Solomon's 
Creek, near New Paris, Ind., each having two rooms. Two small 

219 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

rooms were added by their own hands, at their ow^n expense. Thus 
they lived together in happiness, without a mar or jar. 

In 1869-70 DeKalb Circuit was assigned to him, with J. Wales 
and H. E. Overmeyer as colleagues respectively, and in 1871 he 
was returned to Elkhart Circuit, with W. Wildermuth as assistant. 

HIS WORK IN OREGON 

In October, 1871, the Board of Missions appointed him a mis- 
sionary to Oregon. He continued serving Elkhart Circuit until 
spring. On Monday, April 29, 1872, he, with the family, left Elk- 
hart, and started on their long and hazardous journey, reaching 
San Francisco, Cal., Saturday, May 4, 10 P. M. Father Mar- 
quardt, missionary at San Francisco, met them at the station, with 
whom they shared their hospitality until the following Saturday, 
when they boarded the ocean steamer "John L. Stephens." They 
landed in Portland, Ore., Thursday morning next, and in the after- 
noon went by railroad to Salem, where they met Josiah Bowersox 
and family, then our only missionary in Oregon. 

The field assigned to Oakes was Albany and Corvallis, county- 
seats, ten miles apart, on Willamette River. They made their 
home in Albany. They bought a five-roomed cottage and two lots, 
the first property they owned. He says, "We liked Oregon, but as 
far as church work was concerned, I felt that nothing could be 
done." So in the fall of 1873 he wrote a letter to the Board of 
Missions, giving his view of the situation thus, "That there were 
no prospects to become self-supporting for many years, if ever, 
and that we were throwing away our money and efforts which 
could be much more successfully applied elsewhere, etc." His let- 
ter to the Board was a long and definite one, ending with a re- 
quest to recall him, as he was too conscientious to remain at the 
expense of the General Mission treasury. He was known for his 
sincerity, and his views to the Board were later voluntarily cor- 
roborated by letter by the then senior Bishop J. J. Esher, while on 
his way to Japan from Oregon. The Board granted him leave to 
return by spring, 1874, but believing that he could save the mis- 
sionary treasury several hundred dollars on salary, they packed 
up in December and returned. After a stormy voyage they ar- 
rived, Dec. 24, at San Francisco, and per emigrant train, to save 
expenses, they arrived at Elkhart, Jan. 3, 1874. 

HIS WORK IN INDIANA CONFERENCE AGAIN RESUMED 

Early in the spring he took charge of the Huntington Mission, 
relieving W. W,. Wildermuth. At the Conference session, held at 

220 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Noblesville, Ind., September, 1874, he was assigned to Mishawaka 
Circuit, which he served three years successively with great re- 
sults, especially the second year, when he had a wonderful re- 
vival, in which 80 persons were converted, of which the older 
members still speak. He says, "This meeting began under de- 
pressing and discouraging circumstances." 

In the spring, 1877, he was stationed on Twin Lake Circuit, 
which also was a very successful year of seven months, the Con- 
ference sessions having been changed to spring in 1876. M. W. 
Steffey, P. E., said of his work, "I never saw so great a change 
for the better and the work improved in so short a time, as was 
the case here." When the year was up he insisted to be moved, 
contrary to the wishes of his Presiding Elder and the people, but 
afterwards he resolved never to do so again. In 1878 he was sent, 
as he termed it, "to the almost barren and lifeless Benton Circuit, 
a bony part of the old Elkhart Circuit." Because of the uninhabit- 
able condition of the parsonage on Solomon's Creek he located in 
Bremen, 30 miles from the nearest appointment. This, he says, 
"was a hard, fruitless year, and did not receive his salary by sev- 
eral hundred dollars." He says, "Going from Twin Lake Circuit to 
Benton was, figuratively, jumping out of the frying-pan into the 
fire." In 1879 he was again assigned to Kendallville, formerly De- 
Kalb Circuit. On this field he spent three successful years. In 

1882 he had charge of East Germantown Circuit, where the Con- 
ference session of 1883 was held, when he was newly elected as 
Presiding Elder. 

He served in the office of Presiding Elder continuously from 

1883 to 1905 as follows: Fort Wayne District, 1883-87; Elkhart, 
1887-91; Fort Wayne, 1891-95; Elkhart, 1895-97; Indianapolis, 
1897-99 ; Fort Wayne, 1899-1903 ; Indianapolis, 1903-04. In these 
years he often felt as though he could and would not continue in 
this work, owing to constant travel, exposure and responsibility, 
but again he wished to obey God and the church. In 1905, at the 
Rochester Conference, he resigned and located. He was the 
oldest among the Presiding Elders, the longest in service, consid- 
erably depleted in bodily and mental vigor. He served longer in 
this office than any other Presiding Elder of the Conference. 

In 1904, J. M. Haug, Presiding Elder of Louisville District, 
died. D. D. Speicher filled out the Conference year. At the fol- 
lowing Conference session D. S. Oakes was elected Presiding El- 
der. The districts were assigned to the Presiding Elders, but, ow- 
ing to hard and long service, midst cares, worries and responsibili- 
ties, Oakes felt in justice to himself that he could not, at his ad- 

221 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

vanced age, accept the assigned district, and because the Confer- 
ence did not see fit to make an extra small district for him, he 
resigned, though reluctantly. It was not unwillingness on the part 
of the Conference to grant him his wish by creating a small dis- 
trict for him, but because of the inexpediency and insuflflcient com- 
pensation for five elders, had the Conference acceded to his propo- 
sition. Not wishing to take a charge, believing himself incapaci- 
tated to serve as pastor after so many years in Presiding Elder 
work, he quit the active ministry, as he says, "by force of circum- 
stances and on the responsibility of the Conference." But he did 
not lay down his Gospel armor, though he felt greatly relieved to be 
free from assigned duty, but continued preaching frequently, and 
assisting in revivals, until illness prevented him. In all, he was 
forty-two and one-half years in active service, and one year in the 
local relation. 

Brother Oakes was a staunch and loyal son of the church. He 
was conservative, always sincere, frank, open-hearted to those who 
trusted him, and true and firm to his conviction. He was a wise 
and safe counsellor, possessing a keen insight in administrative 
things and careful in rendering his judgments. This made him 
from the beginning a strong leader in Conference aff'airs. His 
preaching was Scriptural, unctuous, convicting and convincing, 
and at times very eloquent and unique, though sometimes he got 
badly brushed in his efforts to preach. He despised sham, pomp, apish- 
ness and self-praise. He disliked indolence in ministers and re- 
garded it almost criminal to be unfaithful to church and Confer- 
ence trusts. In business affairs he was exact, economic and judi- 
cious. His aspirations were to be useful to his fellow-men, and 
edifying in his preaching. He never claimed to be without faults 
or human weaknesses. In manual work that had to be done, in ar- 
ranging for camp-meetings or building churches, etc., he always 
did his share of the work, and was an inspiring example to younger 
brethren. In some things he was somewhat eccentric and exact- 
ing — still he made many warm friends. He possessed quite a 
sense of wit and humor, was jovial, a good entertainer — almost 
limitless when relating humorous incidents that occurred in life. 
He was a good singer, somewhat of a poet, and a successful de- 
bater, especially when yet in his full vigor of body and mind. 

He filled all the offices the Conference had in power to be- 
stow, and discharged his duties with tact, faithfulness and satis- 
faction. He represented his Conference 24 years as trustee of 
North-Western College from 1866-72 and 1885-1903. For some 
years he was a representative to the Board of Missions. Six 

222 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

times he was a delegate to General Conference. He served the 
Conference as secretary in both languages for some years. He 
was Conference mission treasurer and trustee and member of the 
Oakwood Park Association for some years. 

Two samples of his poetry are here inserted, and one in con- 
nection with the Semi-Centennial Anniversary (which see). 



REMINISCENT 

In eighteen hundred sixty-two 
I started out to preach, 
Having nothing else in view 
But Gospel truth to teach ; 
To win poor, wandering ones to God, 
Believers to edify; 

The riches of Christ to spread abroad, 
And Him to glorify. 
I did not seek the world's applause, 
Nor self to aggrandize. 
But to promote His glorious cause. 
And find favor in His eyes. 
I was weak and incompetent. 
Deficient in many ways. 
But humbly trusting forth I went 
Relying on God's grace. 
I tried to preach but once before 
I went to Conference ; 
It was to me a trial sore 
To face the audience 
Composed of Christians not a few, 
Class-leaders three or four. 
And the Presiding Elder too, 
With several preachers more; 
And there were my associates 
Of youth and boyhood days. 
With nearly all my church classmates 
To criticize or praise. 
The sermon was not over long. 
And sure not o'er profound ; 
The argument not striking strong, 
Though based on Scripture ground. 
223 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

When I was through the Elder closed 
With exhortation strong, 
With fervent prayer that all enthused 
And soul-inspiring song. 
The time I surely ought to tell, 
'Twas on a Sunday e'en : 
The date I too remember well, 
'Twas August seventeen. 
In Matthew's gospel was my text, 
The Master's counsel terse. 
Contained in chapter twenty-sixth, 
And the forty-first verse. 
Thursday, the tenth of September, 
How well I remember! 
We seven did start 
Six miles north of Elkhart, 
To Conference, way down 
At East Germantown. 
There were J. Fisher and I, 
J. M. Gomer, A. Nicolai, 
C. Ude, P. Thornton, 
And M. Speck, the seventh one. 
Four buggies for seven. 
Our number was uneven. 
So, having a rig of my own, 
I rode mostly alone ; 
But once in a while. 
The time to beguile, 
My friend, Peter T., 
Would come and ride with me. 
The first day till noon 
We reached New Paris town. 
Where we all got our dinners 
At good Brother Zimmer's ; 
We were then delayed an hour 
By a good thunder-shower. 
But yet before night 
Reached Warsaw all right, 
Where all night we remained, 
Being well entertained. 
Next day all went well. 
And we reached Immanuel, 
Where friends vv^ere us awaiting 
224 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

To attend a quarterly meeting, 
As Fisher had arranged for. 
Here we met a number more 
Preachers, who, from thence, 
Like we, were going to Conference. 
Monday found us en route again 
To the capital city on the train ; 
Tuesday, with our numbers swelled. 
We reached where Conference was held. 
When the Conference begun, 
Presided o'er by Bishop Long, 
All proceedings were in German, 
And the preaching, every sermon. 
Business progress was but slow; 
What a contrast then and now! 
Then every little business question 
Was discussed in open session ; 
Now no matter is long conferred. 
But to "committee" is referred. 
From active work five men withdrew. 
While only three came in anew ; 
Those were Schwille, Bretsch and Ruh, 
And Burgener and Geisel too ; 
There were Thornton, Dassel and I, 
The vacant places to supply. 
But before the year was gone 
I of these was left alone ; 
Thornton shortly homeward hied, 
And Dassel, he took sick and died. 
I was sent to a circuit large. 
Papa Alsbach having charge. 
Our field extended far and wide. 
Three liundred miles per round to ride ; 
Twenty odd points we had to reach, 
'Most every day we had to preach ; 
With endless visits to be made 
We had but little time to read ; 
My studying was largely done 
Upon the road, when all alone. 
Many lived in cabins rude 
With conveniences crude. 
But often courteous and kind. 
To hospitality inclined. 
225 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Our services we mostly had 
In school-house, cabin, barn or shed ; 
When we held them after night 
Tallow candles gave us light. 
Oft we used for public meeting 
The same room for cooking, eating, 
Entertaining, laundry, sleeping, 
And for general housekeeping. 
Only three churches in all our round, 
Where twenty-five now are found. 
Alsbach was a noble soul. 
True as needle to the pole; 
Like a father he was to me ; 
We worked in perfect harmony. 
His preaching, though in doctrine sound, 
Was not regarded as profound. 
Nor textual, nor topical. 
Nor yet in general practical ; 
But earnestly devotional. 
Exhortative, emotional. 
This of preaching was his idea, 
(As often he expressed to me,) 
"What text is of but little merit. 
If you only have the Spirit." 
Poor man ! He had his troubles sore ; 
For one his health was rather poor; 
Phthisis placed him in such a plight 
He sometimes could not sleep at night; 
At other times rheumatic pain 
Caused him much suffering again. 
Another source of misery 
Was absence from his family; 
They chose upon their farm to stay. 
Which was some forty miles away. 
And though he frequently went home, 
(Which caused severe complaint with some), 
'Twas not as if he could be there 
Alway, and have more present care 
Helping his wife the burdens bear 
In their general welfare. 
His eldest son had gone to war, 
Although his years were scarce a score; 
This left his wife mostly alone 
226 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

With a young girl and half-grown son. 

The times were hard, the country rent 

With difference of sentiment 

About the war then being waged, 

And which the North and South engaged. 

Nevertheless the Lord did bless 

And crown our work with some success. 

And so the weeks and months rolled on, 

Till the eventful year was gone. 

Again to Conference, with joy, 

We went, in Marshall, Illinois. 

Bishop Orwig presided here; 

The business was dispatched with care. 

When the appointments were read out 

And every man received his lot 

I was assigned to be alone, 

On a mission, Huntington. 

Eight appointments the work embraced; 

One was dropped ere the year was passed. 

The year was fraught with many a joy. 

But joys come not without alloy; 

There were trials not a few, 

And some strong temptations too. 

I had no visible success, 

Which did my spirit much depress 

(However, next year made it plain 

That my work was not in vain,) 

And tempted me to quit the field. 

To which I was inclined to yield, 

Because it seemed my duty clear; 

So near the ending of the year 

I wrote, informing my P. E. 

That he need not count on me 

As one yet standing in the line 

When the next the men they did assign. 

But ere the year was fully closed 

My mind was otherwise disposed ; 

So I resolved to go ahead 

And in the way of duty tread ; 

So, in September Sixty-four, 

I went to Conference once more ; 

'Twas held in the metropolis, 

The city of Indianapolis. 
227 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Bishop Esher here presided, 
And our minds were soon decided 
By his counsels and his teaching, 
By his business tact and preaching. 
That he was the right selection 
In the episcopal election. 
Here I had deacon's orders voted. 
And to that office was promoted, 
By the Bishop's installation. 
And the rite of ordination. 
St. Mary's Circuit was my decree. 
Which I accepted graciously, 
Although (but I didn't know it then) 
It had obtained the cognomen 
Of "the Circuit of Punishment." 
So to my work with joy I went; 
Seven preaching points I found ; 
Seventy miles' travel in a round ; 
With four churches, which was more 
Than ever I had had before. 
At every point I had a few 
Veteran members, tried and true. 
The Saviour drew some hearts to Him, 
Especially at Bethlehem. 
I there beheld displays of power 
As I had never seen before ; 
Nor ever since in same degree, 
As I was there allowed to see ; 
A mighty, sacred holocaust, 
A veritable Pentecost, 
Strong men fell down upon the floor. 
And loud for mercy did implore. 
Converting power came down amain 
And proved their pleadings not in vain. 
Others shouted, leaped and praised. 
And thus a holy tumult raised. 
There had been naught emotional. 
But quiet, deep devotional ; 
'Twas sudden like a lightning flash 
Followed up by thunder crash. 
All were constrained to praise or pray 
Except two boys, who ran away ; 
Of these 'twas said they ran with haste 
228 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

As if by unseen spirits chased. 
St. Joseph District then took in 
What now is Elkhart and Ft. Wayne. 
This territory I canvassed o'er 
As a "Conference collector," 
In connection with my charge, 
Which now would be considered large. 
I had much mud to travel through. 
And heat and cold ; hard labor too. 
But, after ail, as you shall see. 
It was a blessed year for me. 
For here I found a joy of life. 
The girl who later became my wife. 
When the year had come to end 
I went to Conference at South Bend; 
Bishop Long again presided; 
When the stationing was decided, 
And we heard our disposition, 
I was sent to Spring Grove Mission ; 
'Twas a mission lone and small ; 
Eleven members, that was all. 
Two appointments for a start, 
In school-houses twelve miles apart. 
The members, too, were separate, 
At one place three, at t'other eight. 
One school-house I soon exchanged 
For a good church, and so arranged 
That we could use it free of charge. 
At first the attendance was not large. 
But ere the year to end was brought, 
A change in this respect was wrought. 
'Twas providential, I've no doubt ; 
In this way it was brought about: 
When first I for the church applied, 
A young man there the work decried ; 
The ministry he vilified, 
And Christian character minified. 
By which my soul was sorely tried; 
He in the spring took sick and died. 
The family was large and rich, 
Their influence afar did reach. 
To preach the funeral I was called. 
At which my heart at first appalled; 
229 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

But I resolved to preach the Word 

So, if they ne'er before had heard, 

They 7ioiv should hear the Gospel plan 

Which God provides for sinful man, 

Whereby we may salvation have 

And endless life beyond the grave; 

The dead I'd leave with God to deal. 

And to the living I'd appeal. 

When I rose the throng to face, 

I was enabled, by God's grace. 

In that to me, important hour, 

To speak with unction and with power. 

The Word with favor was received 

And good impressions, I perceived, 

Were made on many, and from thence 

I did not lack an audience, 

But as I seek not fame nor glory, 

I'll here abruptly stay my story. 

Should whim possess, perhaps I may 

Resume my tale some other day. An Old FOSSIL 



MINISTER AND PARISHIONER 

(One Side) 

Young Farmer Brov/n was plowing corn ; 
He had been out since early morn ; 

'Twas nearly noon ; 
His strength was getting well-nigh worn ; 
He hoped the welcome dinner horn 

Would call him soon. 

The field was large, the rows were long. 
The weeds grew rank the corn among. 

In the rich soil ; 
The horse went slow, but time seemed slower 
In bringing on the wished-for hour 

Of rest from toil. 

He plodded on with lessening speed. 
Stopping anon to pull a weed 
Along the row ; 

230 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

The neighbors' bells clanged all around ; 
The horns gave forth their blaring sound; 
Not his, oh, no ! 

And now once more he reached the fence 
And stopped a bit, in brief suspense 

What best to do ; 
But soon resolved another bout 
He better make, and then turn out 

And home he'd go. 

His thrifty wife that morn had churned ; 
Then to her weekly washing turned ; 

Now all was done ; 
"And now," she said, "I will in haste 
Prepare for John a quick repast 

And call him soon." 

"I having had so much to do, 
He knows that I am tired, too, 

As well as he ; 
And so he will not scold nor fret, 
If I a 'patched up' dinner get 

For him and me." 

Their minister lived in the town. 
About five miles from Farmer Brown, 

With his young wife ; 
Though both were healthy, strong and brave. 
They more did ease and comfort crave 

Than busy life. 

The night before he had gone through 
Keats, Tennyson and Byron, too. 

To find some verse. 
With which, he thought, on Sunday next 
His chaffy sermon and his text 

To intersperse. 

His wife had her piano thrummed, 
And various tunes had lightly hummed : 

At last, upstairs 
They both with quickened steps had sped 
And softly crept into their bed, 

With shortened prayers. 
231 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

That morn they did not rise till late; 

The clock's hands showed the hour of eight ; 

The sun was high. 
With groan and yawn at last they rose, 
And drowsily they donned their clothes 

With many a sigh. 

"What shall we do today?" she said, 
"To cook or bake I so much dread ; 

'Twill be so hot!" 
"I'll tell you, Angie," he replied, 
"To Brother Brown's we'll take a ride 

And share their pot." 

"Though Mary, you know, makes no pretense 
Her baking and cooking are immense ; 

Her pie and cake. 
Her bread, her butter, chicken, ham. 
Pickles, preserves, jelly and jam 

Would premiums take." 

"And honest John, so blunt, but kind, 
(A nobler fellow you cannot find, 

Go where you will). 
Has hay in barn so nice and sweet, 
And oats and corn, a plenty to eat 

For our horse Bill." 

"On Science, Literature and Art 

In converse, he can't take much part, 

But listens well ; 
So I can show how much / know ; 
Then how to sow, plow, reap and mow 

That he may tell." 

"Mary knows naught of modern play. 
Lawn-tennis, golf, ping-pong, croquet ; 

'Accomplishments !' 
But in house-keeping she's au-fait, 
And can converse with you all day 

With good, sound sense." 

"Why, Archie, dear ! you must have had 
An inspiration ! Oh, I'm so glad 
For your nice plan ! 
232 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

'Twill be so fine to drive out there 
And have the sweet, fresh country air 
Our faces fan ! 

"And then to think of the good things 
That Mary to her table brings ! 

'Tis with delight 
I hail the thought ! Then we can stay 
For supper too, and come away 

By cool moonlight." 

"Well, then, a hasty breakfast get, 
A cup of coffee, an omelet, 

And the cold meat 
That we had left of yesterday ; 
And then we'll haste to get away. 

Or we'll be late." 

Their scanty breakfast soon was done; 
When they had eaten all was gone ; 

No crumb to show. 
"And now," said he, "I'll hitch up Bill, 
And you get ready, if you will. 

And off we'll go." 

The "patched up dinner" Mary fixed 
With various dishes intermixed, 

All clean and neat. 
"And now," she mused, "I'll call John home, 
I know he will be glad to come 

Out of the heat." 

As Mary went to blow the horn 
To call John from his field of corn, 

Adown the road 
She spied the preacher and his wife; 
Bill bearing on with vigorous life 

His precious load. 

"Oh, dear! What shall I do?" she said. 
As back into the house she sped 

Somewhat irate. 
"I wish that they had stayed away, 
Or chose a more appropriate day, 

Nor come so late ! 

233 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

"They will expect the best we have, 
Nor care a fig how much we slave 

For them all day ; 
But they will talk, and lounge, and eat. 
Nor turn a hand to help one bit, 

In any way." 

"They seem to think that we were made 
To toil and sweat that they may feed 

And take their ease. 
But this I'll do, I'll quickly go 
And get another dinner ; so, 

I'll try to please." 

She cut her ham so sweet and nice; 
Pared her potatoes in a trice ; 

Her coffee ground ; 
Her biscuit rolled so nice and fine ; 
A custard pie was next in line ; 

Then with a bound 

She got some lettuce, crisp and new, 
Young radishes, and onions, too, 

And a bouquet ; 
Her table spread with damask white, 
And placed her ware, all shining bright, 

In grand array. 

Her baking, boiling, frying done. 
She brought her golden butter on, 

And honeycomb. 
Though she's forgot the horn to blow, 
John having done his stinted row, 

Had now come home. 

She met him at the dooryard gate, 
To him her troubles to relate ; 

He only laughed. 
And said, "I know it all, my dear; 
I saw the rig as I drew near, 

And knew the craft," 

234 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

"And that they came at noon ; you know 
That that's the way they always do; 

So I well knew 
That you your dinner had prepared, 
Designed by me to have been shared 

With only you ; 

"And that your plans being all upset, 
Another dinner you did get; 

For that's your style; 
Whate'er the imposition is 
You always others try to please 

With self-denial." 

But, now, to wind my story up: 
The preacher stayed to dine and sup 

With Farmer Brown ; 
And then with buggy-load complete. 
Of butter, lard, eggs, flour and meat. 

Drove back to town. 

He had not thought of having prayer 
Nor yet of Mary's toil and care 

Amid the heat. 
But Angle to her husband said : 
"Oh, what a splendid time we've had 

To rest and eat!" 

But Mary to her John did say: 
"Oh, I've been sorely tried today! 

I'm all outdone ! 
Of all the sponges of my life, 
I think our preacher and his wife 

Are Number One." 

John calmly said : "I know 'tis so, 

But Conference sent them here, you know. 

In patience wait : 
Next year we'll get a man to work 
And pray, instead of play and shirk, 
And loaf and eat." 

D. S. Oakes, 1904. 
235 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

EDWARD J. OLIVER (1871-1901) 

The tragic, early ending- of this useful man's life has re- 
mained an unsolved mystery. Earnest, highly gifted and eminent- 
ly successful, he won his way into the hearts of his people and the 
brethren. 

Born in Lake Co., Indiana, Dec. 16, 1871, and when but one 
year old was moved with his parents to Kansas. Here he re- 
mained until he was sixteen years of age. After this time he had 
the support of himself, and managed to spend eight years at 
North- Western College, from which he graduated in 1897. April, 
1899, the Indiana Conference, at its session at Rochester, licensed 
him as a preacher on probation, and assigned him to Peru Mis- 
sion, a newly opened field. He served this field with great ac- 
ceptability for two years. 

At the session held in Berne, Indiana, he was ordained as 
deacon in one of the most impressive ordination services held in 
the Conference, in which Oliver received an overwhelming bless- 
ing from the divine Spirit. He was assigned to E. Germantown, 
Indiana, which charge he was not permitted to see. Leaving the 
Conference session, he hastened home as rapidly as possible, in 
order that he might get to Illinois as soon as he could, for on the 
Thursday following he was to be married to Rev. J. B. Elfrink's 
daughter, Anna, who lived in Aurora, 111. Instead of going to the 
depot when the train pulled into Peru he alighted at the "target," 
right near his home, in order to be able to catch the next train 
out for Chicago. As he alighted from the train, looking forward, 
he stepped on a side-track and was run down by an approaching 
train, frightfully mangled and killed. His fiancee had previously 
had a vision of this entire happening, and, informing him thereof, 
warned him to be exceedingly careful. The shock was terrible 
to all who knew him, and especially to his betrothed. His burial 
took place just 24 hours before the wedding march should have 
begun. What sadness and unbearable grief a few hours did 
bring! This tragic death occurred Monday, April 15, 1901. 

AN APPRECIATION 

Brother Oliver was a man of powerful physique. He pos- 
sessed the body of an athlete. He was gifted in many ways. He 
had a fine bass voice, which he used to glorify God in song. At 
the Conference, which proved to be his last, he sang, as a solo, 
"Nearer, My God, to Thee," to music of a special setting, to the 
edification of all present. He also was a member of the original 
Conference quartet that was formed at this session, but did not 

236 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

get to sing with it. The members of the quartet, as organized, 
were: S. H. Baumgartner, J. H. Breish, G. B. Kimmel, E. J. 
Oliver. Oliver was the director of this first quartet. 

He was held in the highest esteem by the people of Peru, 
both of his own congregation and of other churches. His affable 
nature won him a large place wherever he went. He possessed 
a strong intellect, was exceeding careful, exact and orderly in the 
preparation of his messages and teachings, forceful and effective 
in delivering them. Nor did he hesitate to correct wrongs wher- 
ever he found them. On one occasion when a naughty boy of his 
neighborhood mistreated some smaller children he ran after him, 
pursuing him into his very home. He told the boy's mother what 
her boy had done, and that he was going to apply some "palm- 
oil," to which his mother gave leave. When the lambasting was 
over the boy was bettered, the mother satisfied, and the smaller 
children of the neighborhood had peace. 

THE OBSEQUIES 

The funeral services were conducted by his Presiding Elder, 
S. H. Baumgartner, who preached from the text, "There is but 
a step between me and death." The services were held in the 
Presbyterian Church, because our own church was too small at 
that time to accommodate the throng of people that desired to at- 
tend. After only a few hours' notice the church was filled to over- 
flowing, and all the local ministers gave witness to their high re- 
gard of Brother Oliver. A number of our own ministers were 
present and assisted in the services. The body was then taken to 
Hebron, Indiana, where interment was made. 



HIRAM E. OVERMEYER (1836-1895) 

This servant of God was born in Jackson Township, Sandusky 
Co., Ohio, May the 27th, 1836. He was the eighth child of hon- 
est farmer folks, Hugh and Elenora Overmeyer. The early part 
of his life was spent upon the farm, where a few books and a 
very limited opportunity for schooling had to suffice, even if it 
could not satisfy the cravings for a good education. He bor- 
rowed every book he could get hold of, and sought to acquire what 
learning he might. At the age of twenty he won a teacher's cer- 
tificate that entitled him to teach public school. In the spring 
of 1857 he entered Otterbein University, alternating teaching with 
going to school. This he did for a number of years. His tenacity 
and plodding won for him a liberal education. When the war 

237 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

broke out he enlisted in Co. I of the First United States Chasseurs, 
afterwards the 65th of New York, in which he served for three 
years, after receiving an honorable discharge Feb, 20, 1865. As a 
Christian he kept himself free from the ordinary corruption of 
army life, and exerted a wholesome influence all about him. 

HIS MINISTRY 

He moved to Marshall Co., Indiana, in the spring of 1866, 
south of Plymouth. Ever since his conversion, which took place 
Jan. 7, 1857, he felt the call of God upon him, but now it became 
more urgent than ever. After much mental stress and agitation 
he finally yielded to the Spirit's call and applied for license, which 
he received Sept., 1870. He then served the following fields: De- 
Kalb Circuit, 1870-1; Spring Grove, 1871-3; Elkhart, 1873-4; 
New Paris, 1874-5, after which he located on account of impaired 
health and family necessities. In the fall of 1881 he again took 
up the work and joined Wildermuth at Twin Lake, and he served 
the following fields thereafter: Twin Lake, Mishawaka, 1883; 
Logansport, 1884-7 ; Wolcottville, 1887-9 ; Berne, 1889-90 ; E. Ger- 
mantown, 1890-1; Twin Lake, 1891-2; Noblesville, 1892-4. In 
November of this year he was obliged to lay down the work, for 
his health was rapidly failing him. 

HIS DEMISE 

Just a month before his death he wrote with his own hand 
these words, "And now my life's record is before God and my 
fellow-men. How much has met the approval of the Master 
only the future can reveal. To all that has not the approval of His 
"well done" I can only trust to His pardoning mercy through our 
Lord Jesus Christ. And yet I believe that my life has not been a 
failure, but that many precious souls have been saved through 
my feeble eff'orts, and I hope to find many stars added to my crown 
of rejoicing. I am happily, gloriously and eternally saved through 
the wondrous grace of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ." 

The funeral rites were held in the Evangelical Church at 
Noblesville, Indiana, C. F. Hansing, his Presiding Elder, preach- 
ing the sermon. F. G. Schweitzer and J. Harper and ministers 
of the city assisted. 

He left a widow, whom he had married as a Margaret Kem- 
merling of Ohio, March 5, 1857, and seven children. 

Interment was made in Crownland Cemetery, Noblesville, In- 
diana, r 

238 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 
WESLEY PINKERTON (1836-1911) 

The subject of this sketch was born in Holmes County, Ohio, 
of Scotch-Irish ancestry, Jan. 21, 1836. His parents were mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and spent their lives on 
the farm, as did also their son. Wesley enjoyed but a common 
school education, but gave himself to continuous reading, which 
greatly broadened his mind and usefulness. 

He v.-as converted under the labors of Rev. Kaiper in 1874 
or 5, at the Island class, Nappanee Circuit, and united with the 
Evangelical Association. The Indiana Conference licensed him 
as a probationer in April, 1878. He never entered the active work, 
but preached as often as opportunity and health permitted. He 
was a great friend to the traveling ministers. 

It was said of him : "He was a great man of faith, trusting 
in God implicitly in all circumstances. While he was a great suf- 
ferer for many years, he was always patient and cheerful. He 
won many battles upon his knees, and his great gift of prayer re- 
sulted in the conversion of many souls. Plis life was modest, but 
consistent with his confession, his preaching plain, calm, but 
convincing." He was highly esteemed by all who knew him. 

In 1860 he was married to Emaline Kinney of Bucyrus, Ohio. 
He was the father of one son and three daughters. He lived his 
entire life, excepting the first three and the last seven years, on his 
father's homestead near Milford, Ind. When he retired, in 1904, 
he moved to Milford, Indiana. He died Dec. 4th, 1911, at Milford, 
Ind., and was buried in the same place. Rev. A. B. Aegerter, as- 
sisted by other local ministers, conducted the funeral services. 



G. G. PLATZ (1817-1904) 

The subject of this sketch is full of interest. His life was 
eventful, fruitful, and continued to a full old age. George G. 
Platz was initiated into this life in the city of Colmar, Ober-Rhein, 
France, April 9, 1817, and departed this life April 22, 1904. His 
father and mother were loyal members of the Lutheran Church, and 
George, the fourth of 6 sons, was catechized in this faith and con- 
firmed in his fourteenth year. 

In 1833, March 1, his father set sail with his family for Amer- 
ica, settling in Erie County, Pa. Here George assisted in clearing 
away the heavy hemlock and chestnut timber on his father's farm, 
and teamed with an ox-team. He was deprived of all school 
privileges in this land, but he made good use of the schooling he 

239 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




G. G. PLATZ 



had obtained in the fatherland. It was here that George was 
brought under the influence of the preaching of the Evangelical 

Association. He was converted to 
God, January, 1840, and united 
with the church. When he became 
of age he learned the plasterer's 
trade, which he followed until he 
entered the Gospel ministry. He 
was licensed as preacher on proba- 
tion by the Ohio Conference, 
March 9, 1844. The Illinois Con- 
ference at this time was still em- 
bodied in the Ohio Conference. 

His first field of labor was, 
with A. Nicolai, Mt. Carmel Cir- 
cuit, then a part of Illinois Dis- 
trict, supervised by Samuel Baum- 
gartner. This was an exceedingly 
large field, extending from Mar- 
shall, 111., down to Lawrenceville 
and Mt. Carmel, then south-east- 
ward into Southern Indiana as far 
as Huntingburg, and to Troy and Rockport on the Ohio River, with 
well-nigh impassable roads and bridgeless streams. 

He relates a trip he made on the 6th of June in this year, 
attempting to go to Lawrenceburg from Indiana. The Wabash 
River was flooded, and he realized that in order to get across at 
all, he must swim with his horse. He failed to get across and suf- 
fered the loss of valuable books he had with him. A few days later 
he attempted again, and got across to John Schreffier's near Law- 
renceburg, 111. Then he went on to Mt. Carmel, and soon returned 
to Dubois County, Indiana, where he visited friends of the church, 
and ministered in the Word of Life. Again on the 4th of July he 
expected to cross the Wabash River at Vincennes, but finding it 
impossible, turned back to Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana, re- 
maining over Sunday with Fred Meier, and on the 7th preached 
in the home of Mr. Klotz. From there he went to Huntingburg, 
then to Hassville, preaching as he went. After several futile at- 
tempts to cross the Wabash, he finally succeeded on the 24th of July 
and reached home in Mt. Carmel. Not having seen his colleague 
nor heard from him for some time, he started out again from ap- 
pointment to appointment to search for him, and finally, on July 
29, found him sick at the home of a family called Harts. 

240 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Brother Platz was ever on the lookout for new appointments. 
He sought appointments as far down as Troy on the Ohio River. 
In these days taking up new appointments was a mark of faith- 
fulness and interest in the work. In one of his trips he met with 
earnest Methodist people near Boonville, Indiana, where by re- 
quest he preached for them. Old preachers were always ready to 
preach when the opportunity was presented, and feared to refuse. 
He, on this trip, also sought opportunity to preach near Rockport. 
He preached in Evansville in April, 1845, being the first sermon 
that was delivered there by a preacher of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation. 

He relates a special experience he had in Spencer County, In- 
diana, at the home of one Merta, December 1, where he was to 
preach. The people gathered for worship. The "year market" also 
began at this time. When Brother Platz wanted to begin his serv- 
ice in his usual manner, the people interfered, saying, "We want 
to hold service after our manner." Brother Platz yielded. After 
one had read a sermon, Platz was told he might now preach, if any 
wished to hear him. He began, and had for a text Luke 18: 1. 
After preaching one-half hour he was interrupted and charged 
with errors of truth in his preaching. Platz requested his op- 
ponents to give proof of his errors. Then there was a hail-storm 
of boisterous words, one yelling this and others that, until he found 
it necessary to abandon further efforts here, and looked around 
for a place where he might lodge for the coming night. Brother 
Platz often met with very bitter opposition on his extended preach- 
ing tours, for his preaching was plain, forceful and cut the guilty to 
the quick. He often realized that "Christ came not to bring peace, 
but the sword." 

June 1, 1845, Platz, with Nicolai, began their long and tedious 
journey to Des Plaines, Cook County, Illinois, where the first ses- 
sion of the Illinois Conference was held. Soon one of the wheels 
of their conveyance broke down. They borrowed another with the 
same results the next day. Traveling was tedious in those days. 

Platz's second year was spent on Elkhart Circuit, which ex- 
tended over St. Joseph, Marshall, Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble, Whit- 
ley, Fulton, Huntington, Wabash and Miami Counties. This was 
a year of temptation, trial and sickness to P., but also of glorious 
victories, having won many souls for God. During this year he, 
with Wm. Kolb, his colleague, took up new appointments in Niles, 
Berrien and White Pigeon, Michigan, and laid the foundation of 
the future Michigan Conference. He says, "On this circuit they 
found great spiritual dearth. Those professing religion only had it 

241 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

on their lips." He was especially successful around Bremen, In- 
diana, where many were converted. On December 7, after preach- 
ing three miles north of Bremen, he started for Hepton, east of 
Bremen. He got lost in the wild woods and did not arrive at the 
appointed place until evening, when all had gone home. At the 
close of this year he thought seriously of locating. But at the Con- 
ference session he changed his mind, and renewed his covenant 
with God for a gospel service. At this session he was ordained 
deacon. 

His third field was Whitewater Circuit. Going home to Penn- 
sylvania he found his parents and brothers still unconverted. Be- 
ing much concerned about their salvation, he took opportunity to 
preach for the people of their community. He returned to his 
field July 12. This was a year of hard work and little success. 
Rough gangs were frequently encountered, but he worked on. At 
a camp-meeting, held in September on John Dill's farm, a mean 
set of boys set fire to the tents, but all were saved except two. 
The rage of the ungodly here was so great that a note was writ- 
ten and tacked to a tree, threatening to do violence to God's peo- 
ple. This militated against the real success of the meeting, but 
nevertheless souls were converted, and some united with the church. 
Few Germans lived on this circuit, and most of them denied the 
existence of a God. About this time he left an appointment in In- 
dianapolis for September 16. By falsehood, trickery and unfriend- 
liness to him, the meeting was not announced, but later our min- 
isters found an entrance to this place. Chill-fever and other sick- 
ness was so prevalent this year that frequently no services could 
be held. He tried to hold a watch-night meeting in a certain 
school-house on this field, but nothing was accomplished. The 
watch-night became a "Schlafnacht" (sleeping night). He also 
took great and active part in organizing Sunday-schools, which 
were then a new thing, but he found much opposition. On a cer- 
tain occasion a Mr. Williamson collected $4.44 for Bro. Platz, with 
the request that he buy himself a new hat. Brother Platz there- 
upon prayed, "0 Lord, remember his sincerity." 

May 19, 1847, he lodged at Long's in Jacksonburg. Here he 
prayed that if it would be for his good to enter the matrimonial 
life, that the Lord might direct. A Miss Sarah Baumgartner was 
then in the neighborhood. Not being able to write, she asked 
Platz to write a letter for her to her sister Lydia in Illinois. He 
consented to do so if she would go with him to Jacksonburg where 
he would write. She agreed. On the way he inquired of her if 
she had in mind to get married provided she had an opportunity 

242 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

that would appeal to her. She answered "that she frequently had 
said she would rather remain single than live an unhappy married 
life." The time was too short to answer such an inquiry seriously. 
He gave her time to think and pray over the matter until next 
morning when he again had to leave. When morning arrived he 
asked her for her decision. With an earnest look she answered 
that she was afraid she might be unhappy. She further said, 
"When preachers get back in their religious work they usually 
turn out bad," but said "she meant no reflection upon him or ob- 
jection to him, and would, therefore, venture in the name of God." 
Hereupon he extended his hand and promised to be true, and with 
best wishes he departed. 

At the Conference session, held at Naperville, 111., June 9, 
1847, Elkhart Circuit was again assigned to him, with F. Wiet- 
haupt and Welty as colleagues. A serious trouble confronted him 
this year. His intended bride could neither write nor read script. 
So lover's communications could not be carried on without assist- 
ance and embarrassment. April 13, 1848, he went with Jacob 
Baumgartner to Centerville, Ind., to secure the marriage license, 
and at 4 p. m. they were married. Rev, A. B. Schaefer officiated. 
On the 15th they moved to Pvlingeman's in the Dill neighborhood. 
In June he again attended Conference. He was assigned to Chi- 
cago Station. 

i^t the session held in Naperville, 111., on June 20, 1849, he 
was assigned to Elkhart Circuit, with Geo. Mermer and B. Uphaus 
as his colleagues. 

On June 12th, 1850, the Conference again met at Des Plaines 
Emmanuel Church in Cook Co., 111. At this session he was newly 
elected as Presiding Elder and assigned to Peoria District. 

June 18, 1851, at the Conference session held at Brookville, 
Ogle Co., 111., he resigned as Presiding Elder, after serving one year, 
and had Des Plaines Circuit assigned to him. 

At the session held in Naperville, 111., June 16, '52, he was re- 
turned to Des Plaines. 

It is to be very much regretted that from this time on he kept 
no record of his life ; many events in his life, therefore, remain 
unrecorded that might have been very interesting. But his life 
work speaks louder than words. His epistles were written on 
the hearts and memories of many. He was a faithful toiler in 
God's vineyard. He was an exemplary pioneer, ever alert to find 
new opportunities for preaching. 

In 1858 he changed his Conference relation from the Illinois 
Conference to the Indiana Conference, which was organized in 

243 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Naperville, 111., in 1852. He served Whitewater Circuit in 1853 
and Hamilton in 1854 ; St. Joseph District from 1855 to 1859 ; 
Whitewater District, 1859 to 1863 ; Indianapolis Station from 1863 
to 1864 ; Marshall, 1864 to 1865 ; then he retired for one year, 
and Wabash District, 1867 to 1871. In 1871 he retired from the 
active ministry and located on a farm near Marshall, Illinois. 
Later he sold out and resided with his youngest son, where he died 
at the age of 87 years and 13 days. His wife also died soon there- 
after, and their bodies were laid to rest in the Marshall Cemetery. 
As a preacher he was conscientious to his duties, faithful to 
the Gospel of Christ, Scriptural in his teaching, fearless in attack- 
ing sin in and out of the church, clear and unctuous in his preach- 
ing, courageous in correcting wrong-doers and in quelling boister- 
ous actions among rowdies during services. D. S. Oakes said of 
him, "He was powerful in the pulpit, and a good, practical theo- 
logian." If he failed in preaching he would record, "Preached 
without grace," meaning without effect or results. His towering 
stature, broad shoulders, somewhat stern expression, commanded 
respect and carried with it a strong personality that counted for 
something even among the roughs. The writer's father often 
spoke of a camp-meeting which he attended, where a gang of row- 
dies came with stones and clubs to disturb the meeting, and how 
tactfully Platz marshalled a squad of men and completely routed 
them. 

As a disciplinarian he was fearless and firm. On January 21, 
1845, he held a church trial on Sabbath desecration. Two men 
were put on probation for desecrating the Lord's day. At another 
place a woman was placed on probation. In Allen County, Ind., 
at Five Points, where members were in a constant turmoil with 
each other, and a number of fruitless efforts for reconciliation had 
been made. Brother Platz, on a Sunday morning, publicly expelled 
the entire membership from church. After this was done he re- 
opened the church doors and invited all who would hereafter live 
peaceably together, to again unite with the church. Some came 
back. The class v/as finally abandoned. 

It was said of him that he hated affectations, shams and idle- 
ness. He was somewhat severe and critical with young preachers, 
especially if he believed they were not faithful to God's Word and 
other Gospel duties. He was neat in his public appearance and 
taught cleanliness as being a part of godliness. In all he traveled 
during his ministry 75,000 miles, mostly on horseback. His saddle- 
bag and Bible which he used many years are now in the museum 

244 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

of North-Western College at Naperville. This Bible he read 
through twenty-four times. 

The Indiana Conference honored him four times as one of the 
delegates to General Conference, in 1855, 1859, 1863 and 1867, and 
once as trustee of Plainfield College for two years. Brother Platz 
reared a family of five sons and one daughter. It afforded him 
great joy that four of his sons followed him by entering into the 
ministry, namely, Nimrod J., Charles, Moses and Noah. The first 
and last belong to the Indiana Conference and the other two to 
the Kansas. Revs, W. G, Braeckly and D, D, Speicher conducted 
the funeral services. 

D. S, Oakes presented the following memorial in rhyme at the 
Conference session : 

Sixty years ago, or more, the veteran, 

George G. Platz, a son of fair Alsatia, 

These regions traversed o'er ; 

With saddle-bags, on horseback, he 

Through swamp, and slough, and forest deep. 

Plodded his weary way. In summer's heat, 

Or winter's cold, he still went on. 

Hunting up German settlements. 

That he to hungry souls might bring the 

Bread of Life, and lead the thirsty ones 

To fountains ever full and free. 

With tall and rugged form, with giant strength. 

With clarion voice in speech and prayer and song, 

In many a rural neighborhood. 

In hamlet, village, town, he 

Gospel standard raised, and firm foundation laid 

For church of his and our choice. 

A pioneer, with all the meaning of the name. 

Some thirty years ago from active service 

He retired ; and now the Great Commissioner 

Has given him his full discharge. 

A chaplet on his brow I here would humbly place. 



NIMROD J, PLATZ (1851-1913) 

Nimrod was born in Chicago, 111., Sept, 25, 1851, during the 
time that his father, Rev, G, G, Platz, was serving the Des Plaines 
Circuit, His school privileges were very ordinary, owing to the 
fact that the care of the farm devolved upon the boys while their 

245 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

father was away preaching. Yet through hard and persistent 
study and close observation he gained a fund of practical knowl- 
edge that proved of great value in his ministry. 

CONVERSION AND MINISTRY 

At the age of 12 years, under his father's labors, at Marshall, 
111., he gave his heart to God and united with the church. He at 
once became active and gave his best services to the church, of 
which he was a member. He attributed his conversion to the 
wholesome influence of his own home. His readiness to give his 
life to the service of the Christ and the church he likewise attrib- 
uted to his home influences. 

When the call of God came in clear tones to him, he, in the 
face of a needy field, gladly yielded his life to the work. His class 
was anxious to recommend him to the work of a minister, hav- 
ing been greatly impressed with his earnestness and labors among 
them. He was licensed by the Indiana Conference in 1874 and 
appointed to Rockport. At the close of this year he was returned 
to Rockport, and afterward served the following fields : Shelby 
Mission, 1875-6. At the organization of the South Indiana Confer- 
ence he cast his lot with this Conference and served in her bounds 
most faithfully. 

In April, 1893, when the South Indiana Conference was again 
incorporated with the Indiana Conference, he served another year 
on Camp Creek Circuit; then, in 1894-7, Vera Cruz; 1897-9, Bre- 
men ; in 1899, on account of infirmities and family necessities, he 
located on his farm at Marshall, 111. Later on he sold out, and, 
moving to Olney, 111., he purchased a 20-acre farm and lived there- 
on until his decease. 

He experienced many trying circumstances in his earlier 
days, such as were common to the early pioneers, but in all the 
Lord gave grace and endurance. He had the joy of leading many 
to Christ, and greatly edified the churches to which he was sent. 
In his preaching he was Scriptural, practical, definite and always 
interesting. He had a style of his own that was fresh and varied 
as life. He was not guilty of lengthy sermons, never tired out an 
audience, and was always heard again. He was expository, 
textual as well as topical in his sermons, and did not hesitate to 
use striking and luminous anecdotes, which made his messages 
as breezy as the air. He was a natural orator, and, as such, never 
dabbled in things not understood, nor in cold, bald, dead, theologi- 
cal reasoning. 

246 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

He was married to Elizabeth Dawson in 1878, and was the 
father of six children, all of whom survived him. His end came 
after a lingering and exceedingly painful illness, Dec. 17, 1913. 
Rev. M. W. Sunderman conducted the funeral services at Olney, 
after which the body was conveyed to Marshall, 111., where, after 
a brief service by Rev. J. J. Wise, P. E., and Leo J. Ehrhardt, it 
was interred. 

PHILIP PORR (1819-1881) 

This brother was born in Felsberg, Rhein-Baiern, Germany, 
1819, and died July 5th, 1881, at Dayton, Ohio, where also his 
body is interred. He came to America in '42 and settled somewhere 
within the bounds of the Ohio Conference. Soon thereafter he 
was converted to God through the efforts of Evangelicals and united 
with the Evangelical Association, He was licensed and received 
into the itinerancy by the Ohio Conference in May, '50. 

When the German people began migrating to Kansas, and the 
leaders of the Evangelical Association saw the need of following 
with the Gospel, Brother Porr w^as one of the first to volunteer his 
services. He hunted up the new German settlers in Kansas and 
helped lay the foundation of our present Kansas Conference. 
After a number of years' service in this capacity he found it neces- 
sary to return East, casting his lot this time with the Indiana Con- 
ference. He served the following appointments in the Indiana 
Conference: Newville, '65-67, and Van Wert, '67-69. W^hile at 
Van Wert he had a mental collapse, due to the freezing of his 
brain, one bitter cold winter, on one of his long itineraries. In 
'69 he had to locate and was taken to the asylum. After a while 
he was sufficiently restored to be taken home, but never again was 
able to re-enter the work, preaching only occasionally as circum- 
stances would allow. On account of his affliction he was subject 
to melancholia. 

He was a true and conscientious man, and although not pos- 
sessed of unusual talents, his sermons were clear, biblical and 
unctuous, and his labors successful. He was married to Susannah 
Alsbach, who survived him some thirty years. Their only two 
children died in infancy. Dr. C. C, Baumgartner preached the 
funeral sermon. He willed his property to the Indiana Conference, 
a house and lot in Dayton. Ohio, His widow had possession of it 
until her demise, the Indiana Conference keeping up the repairs 
and paying the taxes. After Mrs. Porr's death. Rev. Schuermeier, 
executor, sold the property for the Conference for $1,300.00, which 
flowed into the Conference treasury, 

247 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

HENRY PRECHTEL (1845-1894) 

This brother was a native of Asch, Austria, and was born Jan. 
11, 1845, and died Jan. 27th, 1894, at Emporia, Kansas. His body 
lies in the Gross Cemetery, east of Winamac, Pulaski Co., Indiana, 

He came to America with his parents when about 6 years old, 
and located near Logansport, Ind., where he attended school. He 
was also catechized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church, Later 
on his parents moved to near River Bank, Pulaski Co., where they 
lived among the early settlers on a farm along the Tippecanoe 
River. Here his parents remained until their death, 

HIS EDUCATION AND CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

He was educated in the common schools, after which he pre- 
pared himself for teaching, and, for a time, taught school. Eigh- 
teen months before the close of the Civil War he entered the Union 
Army and continued with it until the end, attaining to the rank 
of sergeant of the 128th Regiment Indiana Volunteers. Several 
months during this time he was seriously ill. After he received 
his discharge he returned and again engaged in farming. 

Henry later came under the mighty influence of the Gospel, 
as preached by ministers of the Evangelical Association, and was 
converted to God in March, 1871, when he also united with our 
church. From now on he lived a true. Christian life, and aimed to 
serve the Lord with his whole heart. He acquitted himself so well 
in the service of Christ and the church that already in 1872 his 
class recommended him for the ministry, and the Indiana Con- 
ference licensed him on Sept. 12, 1872, as preacher on probation. 
At once he entered the work and continued to study until he be- 
came proficient in both German and English, ranking among 
the best in the Conference. He was in the ministry continuously 
from Sept., 1872, to 1881, serving in the Indiana Conference until 
he was compelled to locate on account of the loss of his voice. 

He served the following fields: Greenville, Richmond, Twin 
Lakes, Mishawaka, While in the ministry he had the great mis- 
fortune of being robbed of $379, missionary money, which he had 
just collected the night before his return from one of his appoint- 
ments. He, however, replaced the whole amount by the sale of 
all his young stock that he and his wife had raised. This amount 
may not seem large, but to them at this time it represented a small 
fortune. His most grievous trial was the loss of his voice that 
compelled him to locate. 

He remained quite active in the church all his life, and liber- 
ally supported the cause of missions. He had "almost phenomenal 

248 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

success" in h's revival work, having many souls for his ministra- 
tion. It was said of him "that he was an interesting, fluent and 
forceful speaker. His sermons were always well arranged and 
well in hand. It was frequently remarked by the older members 
that he always concluded his sermons before they were half ready 
for him to quit. 

A few years after he located he moved to Pratt Co., Kan., 
hoping to recover his lost voice, but not getting the expected help 
he moved to Salem, Oregon, where he remained 2 years. From 
here he moved back to Emporia, Kan., realizing that his life would 
soon terminate. Two days before his demise he testified to the 
fact that "all is well with my soul, and told his family to trust in 
the Lord who doeth all things well." He was survived by his 
wife, five daughters and one son. He was married to Eunice May 
Dunfee, April 12, 1869, in Pulaski Co., Ind. His funeral was held 
in the Methodist Episcopal Church of Emporia. The pastor. Rev. 
Ewald of the Evangelical Association, preached the sermon, as- 
sisted by the Methodist Episcopal pastor and G. A. R. Post. 



ROBERT RAINEY (1844-1897) 



Brother Rainey was born near 
Fostoria, Seneca County, Ohio, No- 
vember 17, 1844, and departed this 
life, April 10, 1897, and was bur- 
ied in Blakeslee Cemetery, Wil- 
liams Co., Ohio. He was survived 
by his wife and children. He was 
converted in '67 in the United 
Brethren Church, Seneca Co., O.. 
which he also joined. He was rec- 
ommended to the Indiana Confer- 
ence by the Oak Grove class on 
Edgerton Circuit, and was licensed 
April, 1882. He was ordained as 
deacon in '85, and elder, '87. 

He had the privilege of being 
reared by Christian parents, mem- 
bers of the United Brethren 
Church. His father was one of 
the pioneer settlers in Seneca Co., 
Ohio, hence Robert received only 

249 




ROBERT RAINEY 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

an ordinary country school education, but by home readings and 
study he became fairly well equipped for his high calling. On Oct. 
6, 1870, he was united in marriage with Anetha Boughton, and in 
1872 moved to Williams ("o., 0., about 6 miles north-west of Bryan, 
where he bought a small farm. Here he united with the Evan- 
gelical Association at Oak Grove class of Edgerton Circuit. He 
continued serving the Lord with faithfulness and the church of his 
choice with acceptability, and soon won the esteem and confidence 
of the people of Oak Grove class, which in due time recommended 
him for license. Previous to his ministry he served as class-leader 
and Sunday-school superintendent, and showed aptness in giving 
instructions and of leadership in things spiritual. 

His father died when he was 17 years old, and being thus 
deprived of his father's sympathy and co-operation in religious 
w^ork, lie had many battles to fight alone. Though largely thrown 
upon his own resources, he made his life count for good. He had 
a peaceful and amiable disposition. In character he was true to 
his conviction, and in all his undertakings faithful. His preach- 
ing was exhortatory and unctuous, sound and effective. His de- 
livery was deliberate, his discourses logical. He was generally be- 
loved in and out of the church, and led many souls to Christ. 
In his pastoral work he was faithful, and in the performance of 
his duties he was systematic. He was devoted to his family. Bro. 
Rainey served about 12 years in the ministry on the following 
fields: 1882-3, Defiance Mission; Twin Lakes, 1883-6; Edgerton, 
1886-8. Then he located on his farm for about 5 years ; but dur- 
ing this time supplied Payne Mission lU) years, 1894-6; Ft. Recov- 
ery Circuit; N. Webster, 1896-7, and Bruce Lake, 1897, from 
April to June 10th, when he died. L. Newman and D. D. Spangler 
conducted the funeral at Kewana, and D. S. Oakes officiated at the 
old home in Oak Grove. He lies buried in Blakeslee Cemetery. 



SCHUYLER D. RAINEY (1880-1907) 

Schuyler, son of Rev. R. Rainey, was born 6 miles north-west 
of Bryan, 0., March 3, 1880, and died Aug. 22, 1907. His body 
lies buried in Blakeslee Cemetery. Schuyler was 17 years old 
when his father died, and, with his mother, he moved upon a farm 
in Williams Co., O. He attended high school in Portland, Ind., 
and also took a short course in vocal and instrumental music, which 
was a great help to him in his ministry. 

He received careful religious instruction at home, and at the 
age of 9 years, at Oak Grove, under the labors of J. Rees, was con- 

250 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

verted to God and united with the Evangelical Association. He 
developed into a strong and useful young Christian, and the so- 
ciety, recognizing his piety and ability as a leader, promoted him 
to the superintendency of the Sunday-school. He also was elected 
as class-leader, appointed as steward, organist and chorister, and 
in time filled nearly all offices with tact and ability. Amidst all 
this he beautifully manifested a spirit of humility, courage and de- 
votion to God and his church. 

In the spring of 1904 his 
class recommended him to Con- 
ference, and in April, 1904, he 
was licensed as preacher on pro- 
bation. He did not take work, 
however, until April, 1905, when 
he was assigned to Scott Mission, 
which he served acceptably to 
the time of his unexpected death. 
He was a fluent speaker, and 
had a good, easy delivery. His 
sermons were plain, practical 
and Scriptural. He gave every 
promise of a very useful pastor 
and dispenser of God's Word. In 
his manner he was dignified. His 
social nature and his clean wit 
made him friends easily, but he 
had no place for frivolity. He led 
some souls to Christ in his short 
ministry. He was married to 
Miss Anne Krill of Oak Grove, June 6, 1906. She was a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church near here, and proved a very 
acceptable helpmate to him. D. Martz officiated at his funeral. 
Other ministers were present and assisted. 




SCHUYLER D. RAINEY 



JOHN RIEGEL (1808-1888) 



This brother was born July 6, 1808, and died near Lights- 
ville, Darke Co., O., in 1888. Early in life he was converted to 
God and joined the Evangelical Association. The grace of God 
was with him, and he became actively interested in the work of 
the church. For some time he served as exhorter ; later his 
class recommended hnn as a preacher of the Gospel. In 1835 

251 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

the Central Pennsylvania Conference licensed him, and he entered 
the active ranks, continuing 3 years, enduring the hardships of 
an early itinerant. In 1838 he transferred to the Ohio Confer- 
ence and served 1 year on Circleville Circuit in Pickaway, 0. In 
1839 he moved to Darke Co., O., north of Greenville, into the wild 
woods, where he engaged in secular work and was quite success- 
ful, yet he did not forget his spiritual needs, nor of the people 
around him. H. E. Neff said, "He served here as local preacher, 
comforted many in sorrows, and spiritually fed many hungry 
souls." Several years prior to his death he became unable to at- 
tend the regular divine services, due to impaired health. But 
his faith in God never wavered. He was generally found read- 
ing his Bible and church papers. They were his constant com- 
panions. He felt his life-work was done, and that he was merely 
waiting for his departure. Often he said, "I will patiently wait 
till the good Lord wills to call me home," Towards the last his 
mind became seriously impaired, but just before death he seemed 
to have regained the right use of his mind and said, "Glory to 
God," and expired. His end was peace. He had 11 children. 
H. E, Neff, pastor, then a member of the Indiana Conference, con- 
ducted the obsequies, J. Shamber and Rev. McKibben assisted. 



RUBEN RIEGEL (1818-1890) 

The subject of this sketch entered this life in Armagh Tp.,' 
Mifflin Co., Pa., April 22, 1818, and died May 14, 1890, in Middle- 
port (Dunlaps), Ind. His remains were interred in the Smith 
Cemetery, Elkhart Co. He was converted to God in Warren, 0., 
Jan., 1834, and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 
1842 he was married to Elizabeth Aultman of Summit Co., 0., a 
pious young woman of the Evangelical Association. By her re- 
quest he united with the church of her choice, and from this class 
he received his recommendation to the Ohio Conference for license 
as preacher of the Gospel, which was voted him in the spring of 
1846. He was ordained as deacon in 1849 and as elder in 1852. 
When the Michigan Conference was organized, in 1864, he became 
a charter member thereof. In 1866 his wife died and was buried 
in the Smith Cemetery in Elkhart Co., Ind. He was married the 
second time to Mary Stull in 1868, 

HIS BOYHOOD AND CONVERSION 

His father was a Lutheran and very much opposed to Metho- 
dism, His mother, however, was a whole-souled Methodist, very 

252 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



pious and conscientious in her 
religious duties. Her strict, 
pious and every-day Christian 
life exerted such a salutary in- 
fluence over her husband that 
he finally yielded and was con- 
verted to God. He lived a good, 
Christian life, and became 
class-leader, in which capacity 
he served for a long time. The 
whole family of children were 
converted through the influ- 
ence of the pious mother. When 
Ruben was yet a small boy his 
parents moved from Pennsyl- 
vania to Weatherfield, 0., lo- 
cating on a farm. Here he re- 
ceived his first schooling, about 
which he said : "Having poor 
books and poor teachers, and 
having a great distance to go, 
I got but little schooling, 
scarcely worth talking about." 
From Weatherfield the family 
moved to Warren, 0. Here, ac- 
cording to his own statement, "I grew very wicked, and all the 
good that was ever in me was entirely rooted out." But later he 
was converted and remained a Methodist until 1842, when, at the 
time of his marriage, he united with the Evangelical Association. 

HIS CALL TO TPIE MINISTRY 

Ruben became active in the church and soon received the in- 
ner call to enter the Gospel ministry. Yielding was not without 
serious difficulties, his experience in this being very similar to that 
of other men who had realized the divine call, but who lacked suffi- 
cient schooling. But he finally obeyed and received his license. 
In 1846 he received his first charge, Bristol Circuit, under Frank- 
lin Tobias ; 1847-8 he served on Wayne Circuit with Phil. Schwartz. 
This was a very successful year. His next field was Columbiana, 
1848-50. In 1850 he served Mansfield. At the close of the second 
year he had to locate in order to recuperate his broken health. In 
1853 he re-entered the work and was assigned to Miami Circuit. 
Then Lancaster, Pickaway and Mansfield. Thus ended 11 years 

253 




RUBEN RIEGEL 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

of active service in the Ohio Conference, serving each year with a 
colleague. 

In June, 1859, he came to Indiana, settling west of Goshen, 
Ind. In September of this year he entered the Indiana Confer- 
ence and served the following fields : 1859-60, Elkhart Circuit ; 
1860-1, South Bend Circuit; 1861-3, St. Mary's Circuit; 1863-4, 
Berrien, in Michigan, and when the Michigan Conference was or- 
ganized, in 1864, he volunteered to join it. He said, "I volunteered 
to go and help to start the new institution and bring it into run- 
ning order." He was returned to Berrien Circuit in 1864. In 
1865-7 he served St. Joseph Circuit, traveling 4 years in this Con- 
ference. In 1866, the second year he was in this Conference, he lost 
his dear companion. She had nobly stood by him in his work, and 
patiently bore the privations of an itinerant's life. This bereave- 
ment v/as a serious loss and severe trial to him. In speaking of 
this he said, "Had not the Lord been with me in blessings and 
comforts, my poor heart, and, perhaps, my head, would have gone 
down under the waves." 

RE-ENTERED THE INDIANA CONFERENCE 

In Sept., 1868, he returned to the Indiana Conference, and 
then served Huntington 2 years. In 1870 he was assigned to 
Cicero charge and Kendallville Circuit from Sept., 1872-3, when 
he located. He did excellent service. 

HIS RE-ENTRANCE INTO THE MICHIGAN CONFERENCE 

Bro. Riegel had a very warm heart for the Michigan Confer- 
ence, and in 1876 reunited with this Conference and was assigned 
the last 2 years of his active ministry to Fremont and Marcellus 
Circuits. In the spring of 1878 he was compelled to locate per- 
manently on account of infirmities he doubtless contracted by ex- 
posures to wet and cold. Inroads upon his health were gradually 
made, which caused him great suffering. Speaking of his condi- 
tion, he said, "I was much afflicted, especially after taking cold, 
or getting soaked through with drenching rains. So I concluded 
it would be best to keep near the shore (his home) with my broken 
boat." Later he again moved within the bounds of the Indiana 
Conference, locating in Middleport, where he died. During his 
ministry hundreds of souls were converted and united with the 
Evangelical Association. Rev. Aug. Geist said of him in the bi- 
ography, "As a preacher he was well versed in the Scriptures, 
which he studied day and night. His pulpit ministration partook 
largely of God's Word. His preaching and manner in the pulpit, 

254 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

as in everything else, was precise to a fault. He often preached 
with great unction and power. As a retired preacher he rarely, if 
ever, disappointed the preacher-in-charge or the people. He fully 
exemplified in his life at home and abroad the doctrines he preached 
to others. He was a good man, and "full of faith and of the Holy 
Ghost." 

After he closed his active ministry he took a retrospective 
view of his labors and said, "I am glad I could give so many of 
my best years to Jesus, that I could serve him as a traveling min- 
ister as long as I did. I do not regret the course I took, and what 
I sufiered in the flesh by day and by night, traveling over bad 
roads, crossing unbridged creeks, rivers, etc." While he was able 
to travel he "did not hold his life dear unto himself." 

SOME OF HIS SPECIAL EXPERIENCES 

On one of his trips he started from Smith's class, north- 
west of Elkhart, and proceeded to West Bangor, Michigan, when 
that state was all but a total wilderness. Often the forests were 
trackless, and at very best had mere Indian trails in which to 
follow. The people were very poor, living in log cabins, with 
earthen floors, while the snow had ready access to the beds at 
night. Nevertheless, they were glad to see the preachers come, 
and shared with them the very best they had. Hungry hearers 
for the Gospel made preaching a delight, and glorious times were 
inevitable. He often said, "Those early times were the best and 
happiest of my Christian life." During the first year he had the 
enormous salary of $44.28, and the second year $48 ! 

At one time he held a revival in Ohio, in a neighborhood 
where most of the people were Lutherans, who were very much op- 
posed to Methodism. "There were many converted among them. 
One man, 75 years of age, was happily converted. When he en- 
tered the service he seemed quite feeble, and a comfortable chair 
was brought him, but when he received the pardon of his sins 
he forgot his enfeebled condition and glorified God. As the peo- 
ple in this place had little or no experience in vital Christianity, 
when they were powerfully blessed and saved, they made some very 
odd expressions to describe their feelings. One young woman, 
when asked how she felt, said: "I am so happy I could fly like a 
wild goose !" 

At one time, in the first year of his ministry, while on his 
way to an appointment, he tried to find a text from which to 
preach. It seemed as though there were no texts in the whole 
Bible that he could make use of. He couldn't even find a suitable 

255 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

hymn ! Everything seemed a blank ! He was tempted to go back 
home, and had already turned his horse about when the thought 
came to him, "I will not let the devil whip me like that ; I will go 
to my appointment and will try at least to sing and pray with the 
people." When the place was reached he found the house filled 
with people. He lifted his heart in prayer, and with God's help 
opened the service. The darkness that surrounded his soul began 
to dispel and give way to the light of heaven, and the meeting 
ended most gloriously. At another time he was halted upon the 
street of a certain village, his arrestors claiming that he was rid- 
ing upon a horse that answers to the description of one that had 
been stolen. After he finally succeeded in making plain that he 
was a minister of the Gospel they permitted him to proceed, and 
he went on his way rejoicing. At another time, when about to 
cross the Wabash River near Wabash, Ind., his horse became 
frightened and dashed over the embankment, plunging buggy and 
occupant into the very jaws of death. It was a miracle that he 
escaped with his life. Creeks often had to be forded as well as 
rivers, which, in their swollen and treacherous condition, were a 
constant peril. Several times he had narrow scapes fiom drowning. 

Some amusing things happened to this witty brother, one of 
which we mention. While going from Benton to Kendallville, as 
he was riding in his buggy, he fell asleep and toppled out of the 
rig. His horse started off at a livelier gate, leaving him behind 
in the dusty road. M. Krueger, who was following with his rig, 
thought that Riegel's horse was running away, and hurriedly dis- 
mounted, ran through the woods so as not to frighten Riegel's 
horse, and caught the animal. When he got back to Riegel, who, 
by this time, had picked himself up, he discovered that he had 
fallen out while taking a nap I Riegel was none the worse for his 
experience. 

The obsequies were held in Middleport (Dunlaps), and were 
conducted by Aug. Geist, assisted by M. W. Steffey, M. Krueger 
and J. Hoff'man. 



JOSEPH ROHRER (1801-1884) 

Joseph Rohrer was born at Lancaster Co., Pa., Oct. 30. '01, 
died at Elkhart Co., Indiana, June 5th, '84, and was buried in 
Elkhart Co. He was married to Maria Forrey of Lancaster Co., 
Pa., in '27, who lived together in happiness for 57 years. By dili- 
gence he accumulated considerable property, and, considering his 
early training, was, quite liberal toward benevolences. In '32 he 

256 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 



moved to Stark Co., Ohio, and in '52 to Elkhart Co., Ind. At the 
age of 20 he was thoroughly converted and united with the "Old 
Mennonite Church,*' in which he later served as a faithful min- 
ister over the space of 15 years. He was a man of convictions, and 
spoke them freely. 

In the course of time certain views held by the Mennonite 
Church, together with several practices observed by them, seemed 
to him to be not only unauthorized by the Scriptures, but con- 
trary to them. He spoke forth his belief on these matters and 
was consequently deposed from office as a minister in the Menno- 
nite Church. Later he began attending the services of the Evan- 
gelical Association, and, having studied her doctrines and polity, 
was convinced of the biblical basis upon which she was founded, 
united with her, and was licensed as a preacher on probation. 
For a number of years he labored faithfully and successfully as 
a local preacher in the Indiana Conference. 

His preaching was "plain, practical and urgent," and won 
many souls to Christ. R. Riegel and D. Martz officiated at his 
funeral. 

PETER ROTH (1819-1898) 

This servant of God was born in Scharbach, Lothringen, Ger- 
many, Dec. 31, 1819, and departed this life in South Bend, Ind., 
Jan. 22, 1898, where he is also 
buried. He was converted in 
Greenville, Ohio, and united with 
the Evangelical Association. In 
'59 the Greenville society recom- 
mended him to the Indiana Con- 
ference, and in September of this 
year he was licensed as preacher 
on probation. He was ordained 
as deacon in '61, and as elder in 
'63. He was married to Susanna 
Mary Klein in '41, and was sur- 
vived by his wife, 1 son and 3 
daughters. 

Bro, Roth immigrated to 
America, when a mere lad, with 
his parents in '31, settling in 
Greenville, 0. His parents were 
poor, which made it necessary for 
him to assist in securing a home, 

257 




PETER ROTH 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

and deprived him of all school privileges. However, he used his 
spare moments to study reading and writing. Not realizing his 
coming need of English he studied only in the German language. 

He was reared in the Roman Catholic faith, but providential- 
ly was not to remain a part of that church. He was 20 years old 
when he first saw a Bible. It was at Greenville, where he came 
under the influence of the true Gospel of Christ, preached by 
Isaac Hoifert and Henry Longbrake, and was truly converted to 
God. He then united with the Evangelical Association. For this 
he was severely persecuted, even driven from home, which per- 
secution he patiently endured, considering it was for Jesus' sake. 
He was a cooper by trade and had his own cooper-shop in Green- 
ville, furnishing employment to quite a number of men. 

HIS CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

Soon after his conversion he was elected class-leader, in which 
capacity he served acceptably for 16 years. Concerning his call 
to the ministry he said, "For a long time I realized that I should 
go forth and preach the Gospel, but I did not reveal this convic- 
tion to any one." After much hesitancy and waiting, on account 
of inefficiency, he finally yielded to the high and holy calling. 
He was licensed to preach at the Conference session in '59, also 
being received into the itinerancy, as was then the custom. As his 
diary became lost to the family, there can be no detailed sketch 
written of his life. 

FIELDS HE SERVED 

In Sept., '59-61, he was assigned with R. Riegel to Elkhart 
Circuit, which was then almost as extensive as the present north- 
ern half of Elkhart District. In '61-2 he served on Fulton Cir- 
cuit with Daniel Bartholomew and Geo. Kloepfer. In '62-4 he 
served St. Joseph Circuit. This was a glorious year, 100 persons 
having been converted, most of whom also united with the Evan- 
gelical Association. In '64-5 he served Greenville Circuit, from 
whence he started out. In '68-70 he served Waupecong Mission 
(now Bunker Hill Circuit). In '70-72 he was assigned to St. 
Mary's Circuit ; he was assisted the second year by S. S. Condo. 
In '72 he had Benton Circuit, with Aug. Geist as colleague. In 
'73-5 he served Wanatah Circuit with splendid results. In '75-6 
he was appointed to Marshall Circuit in Illinois, which, he said, 
"was his most successful year." In '76-8 he served Ft. Wayne, 
Bethel Mission, which, on account of sickness, ended his active 
ministerial life. 

258 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Of his own work he says, "My first 2 years were years of 
g-reat and severe trials. It was the beginning of the Civil War ; 
provisions at this time were high, and the salary very meager. 
There were 7 of us in the family to be supported, and we were not 
immune to sickness and death." His salary the first year reached 
the munificent sum of $62.46, and the second year $90.62! The 
people then were poor, and hence great difficulties stared him in 
the face. He said "it became necessary for him to use up what 
little he had accumulated in his cooper trade to support his family 
during these stringent years," 

THE CLOSING YEARS OF HIS LIFE 

He located in South Bend, Ind., in April, '78. For some time 
thereafter he was agent for Dr. Fink's Magic Oil, of which he sold 
a considerable amount, and he had sub-agents in various places. 
He also sold an excellent remedy for diphtheria. For quite a while 
before his death he was in feeble health, gradually decreasing and 
finally his earthly pilgrimage came to an end. 

Rev. Aug. Geist, who w^as a colleague with Bro. Roth for one 
year, bears testimony to his preaching as follows : "I looked to 
him as a model of a preacher. I noted his manner of life and the 
spirit and manner of his preaching. He never impressed me as a 
strong textual preacher; he usually selected texts that were sim- 
ple and clear. His sermons were mostly practical and illustrative. 
For example, on John 2: 10, he illustrated the distinction between 
the natural human life at its best and the immeasurable superior- 
ity of the divine life," In his preaching he was not particularly 
demonstrative, only when under the special inspiration of the 
Spirit, and then his amotions were manifest by his tears. He 
further says of his characteristics, "that he was cheerful, tender- 
hearted and indulgent, perhaps to a fault. His services as preacher 
were quite acceptable to the people. Souls were saved by his 
ministry, and the church people were edified and built up," 

Rev, F. Schweitzer had charge of the funeral service and 
preached the sermon. Other ministers were present and partici- 
pated. 



BERNHARD RUH (1827-1910) 

Bro. Ruh, a charter member of the Conference, was born in 
Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, Dec. 27, 1827, and died in the Lord, 
So. Bend, Ind„ Mar, 25, 1910. He came to America in his 21st 

259 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

year, and, locating in Chicago, found employment with his brother. 
Here he became acquainted with the Evangelical Association, to 
which church his brother belonged, and under the preaching of 
Rev. Chr. Holl he was convicted of his sins and led to sincere re- 
pentance, and after 6 months of careful and earnest seeking found 
the Lord. This was in 1850. He had united with the church 8 
days before and was now a happy Evangelical. 

Recommended by his class for the ministry in '52, and was 
licensed as preacher on probation at the session of the Illinois 
Conference, held at Naperville, 111., in June. He united with the 
Indiana Conference at its organization and served in it IIV2 years 
upon the following charges : '52, Elkhart Circuit, under Jos. Fisher ; 
'58-5, Marshall Circuit; '55, Olney Mission; '56, Berrien, with 
John Fuchs; '57, under Chr. Glaus, Miami Circuit, lying in Ohio; 
'58, P^ulton Circuit, assisted by Peter Burgener; '59, Hunting- 
ton Mission; '60, Berrien Circuit, assisted by J. M. Gomer; '61, 
Elkhart Circuit, with Phil. Schwartz. In '62 he asked for his cre- 
dentials, wishing to go West, and they were granted. 

In April, '63, he united with the Illinois Conference, and 
served 16 years as follows : Deer Grove, Rockville, Grand Prairie, 
Dunkle Grove, Hampshire, Batavia, Henry Mission, Chatsworth 
and Center Lake, in all 27 years. In '79 he located, owing to bod- 
ily infirmities, and lived to be the last of the charter members. 

Bro. Ruh had a very sensitive nature, which caused him 
more or less heartache, opposition and unfriendliness. Yet with 
all this he had a strong social side, loving company, and himself 
was entertaining. Owing to some local church disturbance in 
South Bend, Ind., where he resided from the time he located to his 
demise, he left the Evangelical Association and united with the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. But in the spring of 1902, at the 
50th Anniversary of the Indiana Conference, held in South Bend, 
he was again received as a local elder. He was ordained deacon 
in '54, and as elder in '58. 

He was married to Katherine Laudeman of Bremen, Ind., 
June 25, 1856. One daughter was born to them. Mrs. Ruh died 
Aug., 1858. In '59 he was married the second time to Katherine 
Schafer of South Bend, Ind., who also died in that place. In '94 
he was married the third time to Bertha Walters of Chicago, who 
cared for him until his death. Besides his wife he was survived 
by one daughter and one nephew. Rev. H. Schleucher and R. J. S. 
Meyer of the Methodist Episcopal Church officiated at the funeral 
services. His body was laid to rest in the South Bend Cemetery. 

260 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ABSOLOM B. SCHAFER (1797-1869) 

This herald of the cross was born in Forest, Shenandoah Co., 
Va., Sept. 12, 1797, and died very suddenly at his home in E. Ger- 
mantown, Ind., Dec. 20, 1869. His body was also interred in this 
place. In May, 1830, he was licensed as preacher on probation by 
the Western Conference and received into the itinerancy. In May, 
1851 and 1855, the Ohio Conference elected him to the office of 
Presiding- Elder, and was assigned to Scioto and Sandusky District 
respectively. He was at this time also elected as delegate to Gen- 
eral Conference, which met in October in the Stone Church near 
Flat Rock, Ohio, and again in 1855, when the General Conference 
met in Lebanon, Pa. When he returned home to Dayton, Ohio, from 
the General Conference in 1855 he found his wife dangerously ill, 
and, six days later, June 5, she entered into rest. This was a se- 
vere loss to him. He, however, gave himself to his work and served 
the district to the best of his abihty. Not willing to give up his 
work, nor neglect his children, at the close of the year he married 
Hester Wallick, who became a congenial companion to him. In 
the spring of 1856 he resigned as Presiding Elder in the Ohio Con- 
ference, and united with the Indiana Conference, which gladly 
received him. This Conference was divided into three Presiding 
Elder districts, and he was elected as Presiding Elder and assigned 
to Whitewater District, which he served SV^ years. Conference 
being changed from June to September, when he found it neces- 
sary to resign. In 1859-61 he served Evansville Mission. In 
1861-2, South Bend Circuit. In 1862-3, Indianapolis Mission. In 
1863-5, South Bend Mission. In 1865-6, Cincinnati Mission. In 
September, 1866, he reluctantly retired and took a superannuated 
relation to Conference. He continued to take a deep interest in 
the work of the church, preaching frequently and attending every 
Annual Conference session to the very last, participating in the 
transactions. He was true and devoted to the end. Of him it 
could truly be said, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, 
. . . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." No minister of 
the Conference was held in higher esteem than Father Schafer. 
He served in the active and local ministry 89 years. He repre- 
sented the Ohio Conference 4 times as delegate to General Con- 
ference, the Illinois Conference once, and the Indiana Conference 
three times. He was ordained deacon in March, 1836, and as elder 
in 1839. He was appointed General Conference secretary in 1843. 

261 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

HIS EDUCATION AND RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION 

The community in which Schafer was born was composed of 
European Germans who adhered to their religious creeds, cus- 
toms and language. As a boy he heard derogatory reports con- 
cerning Methodists who taught experimental religion. He was 
taught in the doctrines of the Lutheran Church, was catechised 
from the 9th to 14th year, and then was confirmed and admit- 
ted to communion. In later years he highly appreciated this train- 
ing, and later in life said, "If at the time of my confirmation I had 
been properly instructed, my susceptible heart would have been 
led to repentance and conversion, but, alas !" Though the law 
was preached, awakening and convicting men of their sins, they 
were not taught how to obtain pardon for sin and newness of life 
in Christ. After his first admission to the communion he resolved 
to lead a Christian life. He shunned all wicked associations, re- 
pented bitterly of wrongs he did, but being deprived of proper 
guidance, his good resolves faded away, and he became calloused, 
careless, and, neglecting prayer, soon drifted into sin. 

HIS MARRIAGE AND REMOVAL TO FAIRFIELD 

In 1818 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Zerkle. 
Four sons and four daughters were born to them. Soon after 
marriage he moved to Fairfield Co., 0., arriving there Oct. 15, and 
having severed former associations, he hoped to be able to lead a 
better life. Inquiring about churches in this community, he found 
that there were Methodists, United Brethren, "Albrights," Bap- 
tists, Lutherans, etc. He soon made himself known to the Luther- 
ans as being a Lutheran, and rejoiced to find a religious society 
that he could call his own. J. M. Steck was the pastor, whom he 
regarded as eloquent, and many believed him converted. Soon 
he was appointed as deacon. He felt himself unworthy, and the 
position was averse to him and burdensome, but he continued in 
it for four years, after which he resigned. His inclination toward 
sinful pleasures was fostered. He became wholly indifferent to 
God and religion. Carnality possessed him. Thus he continued 
until the summer of 1829, when he was overseer of a section of 
the Ohio Canal, which was then under construction. 

BROUGHT UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF THE EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION 

In the summer of 1829, Rev. George Schneider of the Evan- 
gelical Association was sent from Pennsylvania to Lancaster Cir- 
cuit of the Ohio Conference. He had a relative in Shafer's com- 
munity and sent a preaching appointment to him for Saturday 

262 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

afternoon at the school-house. Shafer was invited and requested 
to bring others. Only one man besides S. consented to go, and he 
took a different route to reach the place. While S. went through 
the woods he reflected upon his past sinful life, hoping that he 
might yet amend, and he resolved that if he is convinced that the 
preacher is a man of God he would heed all he said and live a bet- 
ter life. Coming near the school-house he saw the minister on 
his knees in a fallen tree-top, praying with sobs. Indescribable 
feelings possessed S. as he quietly passed by, fully convinced that 
Schneider was a man of God. At the school-house there were 
only a few present. Shafer thought so good a man was worthy 
of a better congregation, and proposed if the services were post- 
poned till evening he would try to secure a larger hearing. The 
proposition was accepted, and he, with others, started out, and by 
night had the house nearly full. While he was inviting the peo- 
ple the preacher's tears kept speaking to him. Bro. Schneider's 
text that evening was, "Repent . . . and be converted," etc. 
(Acts 3: 19, 20.) First he portrayed the state of a sinful man. 
Shafer applied the remarks to himself, saying, "I am the man," 
because his life was so well delineated. His sins, his ungodly life, 
the minister's tears came before him until he wept. This man was 
indeed a messenger of God to him. In the second part of his dis- 
course he showed what true repentance means. Shafer caught 
the meaning, and under the third part of the sermon he firmly re- 
solved to seek salvation if there was yet mercy for him. 

HIS CONVERSION 

At the close of the above service Bro. Schneider, seeing Sha- 
fer's affected condition, invited him to a service the next day, six 
miles away. This was in June, 1829. He went, arriving late, the 
house being full. He saw no seat. The minister, seeing his pre- 
dicament, motioned him to a seat in front. Shafer was known here 
"as a great sinner." All eyes were fixed on him. The preacher's 
text was John 8 : 12, "I am the light of the world." Again he 
was moved to tears. The hope of salvation was a new inspiration 
to him. His work on the canal being finished, he went 8 miles 
further on. He was prone to dissipation, which gave him severe 
conflicts. He now often called on God secretly, trying to hide his 
conviction from men. His penitence still "savored too much of 
legality, thinking he must pray as long as he had sinned." Having 
no one to counsel, praying became burdensome. Late one rainy 
afternoon he went to a village on business. When he started back 

263 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

it was dark. He followed the new canal rather than the wagon 
road. A high hill had been cut down by another company, of 
which he did not know, and was suddenly precipitated over a 
twenty-foot embankment. Here he lay unconscious until daylight, 
and became disabled to continue work on the canal. 

A few weeks later a school director requested him to teach a 
school, to open soon. Feeling able for this, he entered into a con- 
tract. The above accident and the school engagement he ever re- 
garded a divine Providence and a most fortunate event in his 
career. The first severed him from wicked men, and the second 
brought him under good Christian influence. Two of the direc- 
tors were members of the Evangelical Association. The above inci- 
dent revived his conviction of sin, deepened contrition, and aug- 
mented his burdens, leading him to much earnest prayer and dili- 
gent reading of the Bible. Sunday morning, Oct. 25, 1829, he read 
Ezek. 18, which awakened a strong hope within that there was sal- 
vation for him. He spent the most of the day in the woods in 
prayer. In the evening he went to the home of his friend Bright, 
where Rev. Yambert was to preach, but having traveled far, and 
already preached twice that day, and those present being mostly 
members, the preacher announced a class-meeting. Schafer was 
disappointed. He could see no benefit in such a meeting for him, 
as he was hungry for the Word of God. Yambert and others re- 
lated their own experiences. 

This deeply affected S. He wished for an opportunity to tell 
them what a great sinner he was, and to ask them to pray for him. 
Scarcely had he conceived the thought when the minister turned 
to him, saying, "Friend Schafer, how is it with you?" Crying 
audibly, he said, "I am a great sinner ; pray for me." Then he fell 
on his knees, and mightily cried to God for mercy. During his 
soul-struggle he knew not how he prayed or what occurred, except 
that God's people were earnestly praying for him. After agoniz- 
ing for two hours, God, for Christ's sake, spoke peace to his soul. 
He could hardly realize how God could accept so great a sinner, 
but experienced that "where sin had abounded grace did much more 
abound." The news that "ungodly Schafer" was converted spread 
with telegraphic speed. Christians rejoiced, yet with fear, lest he 
would not "hold out." Others made sneering remarks and mocked. 
He met with much opposition, persecution and severe temptation, 
but he prayed much for strength to overcome. He fully realized 
that "if he would live godly in Christ Jesus, he must suffer perse- 
cution." 

264 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

HIS EXPERIENCES IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

The next morning after his conversion he resolved to say noth- 
ing of his new life, but being full of gladness, he could not re- 
frain from telling his school all about it. Being determined to 
lead a Christian life, he told the pupils he would also be a Christian 
teacher, and would henceforth open and close the school with 
prayer, which he did. He also held w^eekly evening prayer-meet- 
ings in his school-house. Before his school year closed he had the 
joy of seeing most of his pupils converted. In this he was gen- 
erally sustained by his patrons. But one man took his children out, 
saying, "he sent them to learn to read, not to pray." There being 
much snow this winter, many knee-marks could be seen in the 
woods adjacent to the school-house, where penitent and newly con- 
verted pupils had knelt to pray. S. said, "During the time of recess 
the voice of prayer could be heard in almost every part of the 
woods." 

On his first return home, after his conversion, he told his wife 
of his new experience. She coolly replied, "We will see." He re- 
garded this on her part as very reasonable, in view of his past life. 
He asked her if he might begin family worship, to which she re- 
plied, "Yes, as long as you live accordingly." Her compliance gave 
him great joy. The same evening he reared the family altar and 
maintained it through life. 

About two months after his conversion Rev. Wolf, an aged 
local preacher, gave opportunity to join the church, and invited 
Schafer to unite. S. replied, "Yes, if you deem me worthy to be a 
member among you I will; but if I find you are not sincere I will 
want to be released again, and whenever you find me not upright 
tell me, and you shall be rid of me." On these conditions he joined 
the Evangelical Association. When he united with the church he 
informed himself in the Discipline, and studied it, and learned to 
love and admire it, always regarding it very important for church- 
members. 

His class-leader, Henry Downey, also a local preacher, had fre- 
quent Sunday appointments. In his absence he would appoint 
someone to lead the prayer-meeting. Schafer was asked to lead 
one, to which, after some hesitancy, he consented. At the specified 
time he opened the meeting with singing and prayer. Then he read 
a Scripture lesson and attempted to give an exhortation according 
to custom, but instead an indescribable feeling of loud praises to 
God overcame him. After this he frequently was called on to lead. 
About 3 months after his conversion Yambert, the circuit preacher, 

265 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

requested him to go seven miles "to Rausch's to hold a prayer- 
meeting in a private house on a Sunday, in the place of Bro. Dow- 
ney, who was required to go with Yambert to another place to 
help 'in a big meeting.' " Schafer, with an unconverted brother- 
in-law, arrived at the appointed place and told them his mission. 
He was urged to preach, saying nearly all present were uncon- 
verted, and expected preaching. He first decidedly refused, but 
finally yielded and made the attempt. His text was Rom. 5 : 8, 9, 
"But God commendeth his love," etc. Though he began with fear 
and trembling, he soon felt the power of God, and spoke with great 
liberty. Some regarded the fact that he preached without proper 
authority as presumption, and some preachers were illy affected 
until they learned from Rausch's that they had prevailed upon him 
to preach. Thereupon Yambert inquired of S. as to his state of 
mind, to which he replied, "That I am convinced that God had 
something for me to do, but what, I do not know." But for him, 
in his circumstances, to go out into the Gospel field, was impossi- 
ble now, and God would not call a man to impossibilities, but 
that he was in the hands of God and the brethren." Then Yam- 
bert drew up a recommendation which was signed by the entire 
class. He was examined before the Quarterly Conference by Jos. 
Long, then Presiding Elder of the Ohio District of the Western 
Conference, and on May 3, 1830, the Annual Conference licensed 
him as a preacher on probation, and also received him into the 
itinerancy. 

He was poor, his family large, his wife yet unconverted, and 
he was largely dependent on worldly people for employment. These 
things caused him sore conflicts. After the first year his environ- 
ments improved. His wife became converted with others, and a 
class was organized, with himself as leader. The Lord blessed 
them temporally and spiritually, and he now went out frequently 
to preach, and was often called to conduct funerals, and filled ap- 
pointments for circuit preachers, and even went 100 miles to Miami 
Circuit, and stayed four weeks at a time. Thus he served six years 
as local preacher. Then he attended Conference session in March, 
1836, at Bro. Goodwin's home in Wayne Co., Ohio. 

HIS ACTIVE MINISTRY 

Being urged to take work at this session, he consented to try 
and arrange his aflTairs so that he might, after harvest, if there 
was an opening. His health was good. The Lord prospered him in 
his work. After harvest he, with his family, attended a camp- 
meeting, held on the farm of his friend Bright. His three oldest 

266 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

children were converted. During- this meeting he preached once. 
After his sermon his wife, who had been unfavorable to his preach- 
ing, said to him, "Now you shall no longer be kept from the Gos- 
pel field by me, for I am now fully convinced that you are called 
thereto, and if a door opens to you, enter." From this time on she 
never complained of his long absence from home, leaving her to 
care for the family, nor in any way hindered him in his itinerancy. 
Rev. Brickley, Presiding Elder, having received a request from 
Rev. John Lutz, on Miami Circuit, for help, asked Schafer to meet 
this request. 

He left home the last part of Sept., 1836, with the Presiding 
Elder for Miami Circuit, and at the age of 39 years he entered upon 
his itinerancy. Inexpressible fears assailed him lest he should 
not succeed so late in life, and, possibly, bring his family to want, 
and grave doubts as to his call to the itinerancy assailed him. 
Upon their arrival a quarterly meeting was held. He found in 
Bro. Lutz a good and congenial colleague, and, although younger in 
years, he yet had considerable more experience. They arranged 
their appointments and started on their extended circuit, which 
reached over to Mt. Carmel, 111., where Lutz had begun Gospel 
work in the spring of this year. About bi-weekly they met each 
other for mutual encouragement and rehearsal of their adventures 
and experiences. This term of five months was a good schooling 
for him, learning many heretofore unknown things, especially the 
value of much prayer. Returning home he found the family re- 
signed to his absence, which greatly encouraged him, and he ar- 
ranged for another year. 

Lacking a horse for travel, since he had to leave the one he 
had used at home for farming, and having no money to buy an- 
other, Bro. Bright gave him one, assuring him that as long as he 
was willing to travel on the Gospel field he should never want 
for a horse. He gratefully accepted it as from God. At the Con- 
ference of 1837 he was sent to Crawford Circuit with Peter Goetz 
as colleague. The work was extensive, yet more new appointments 
were taken up, which was one of Schafer's characteristics. It 
took six weeks to make a round, preaching daily. Roads were very 
bad and streams unbridged ; studying was done in the saddle ; 
homes mostly with one room, affording no privacy. Before har- 
vest they were almost compelled to quit work, owing to the scarcity 
of breadstuffs and provender. Their horses had to live on grass, 
and had little time to graze. The horses became so poor that they 
could scarcely travel. But a bounteous harvest followed, discour- 
agements vanished, and the Lord's work prospered. There was al- 

267 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

most a universal spirit of revival awakened, resulting in a great 
ingathering of souls. This field was so extended that two "double- 
handed" circuits were made of it. His family remained well and 
prospered, which greatly encouraged him. 

In the spring of 1838 he was assigned to Mansfield Circuit, 
with H. Longbrake and Jos, Hummel as colleagues. Soon their 
field became so enlarged that they could not work it adequately. 
The Presiding Elder, Samuel Baumgartner, made two circuits out 
of it, calling the eastern end Wayne Circuit, to which Schafer was 
sent with Hummel, who, after three months, became reprobate 
and was expelled. This left S, all alone till near Conference time, 
when he received a young helper in Abr, Niebel, with 20 ap- 
pointments, which he filled every two weeks. In Liverpool, Medina 
Co., he had a great revival, in which G, F. Benner and J, G. Wol- 
pert were converted, who later became prominent ministers in the 
Evangelical Association, J, J, Kopp said of Schafer: "On a cold 
winter's day he traveled 30 miles to fill his appointment here. He 
arrived late in the evening. There were already quite a num- 
ber of people present. As there was no bedroom where he could 
go into secret prayer, he went out after he laid aside his outer gar- 
ments, as cold as he was, into a field of snow for prayer. The 
thought that he should pray for them in the cold snow so impressed 
the people that they began to weep. That night the power of God 
was manifest, and a goodly number of souls were saved," 

In the spring of 1839 the Conference met for the first time 
in a new church building in Greensburg, Stark Co,, Ohio, instead 
of in a private house. Bro, S. was ordained elder. To him this 
was a very solemn rite, and an incentive to a more earnest conse- 
cration for work. He was sent to Lancaster Circuit with C. Au- 
genstein. This field took in his home, for which he was grateful to 
the brethren. At this time all ordained elders were allowed to at- 
tend the General Conference, which this year convened at Mill- 
heim. Center Co., Pa. Schafer attended. He said of this trip: 
"This journey over mountain and valley on horseback was very 
difficult and tiresome for man and horse, but it was the most con- 
venient method of traveling, for of buggy-riding little was known 
by Evangelical preachers, and less yet of railroad travel." At this 
General Conference (his first) he formed the acquaintance of 
many of the best and strongest men of the church. While sitting 
in their midst he said to himself: "How glad I am to find myself 
in company with such men of God. I would not have forfeited 
this privilege for the whole world." Of special interest to him was 

268 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

the election of John Seybert as Bishop, who was almost unani- 
mously elected as the first Bishop of the Evangelical Association. 
Returning home he found his colleague hard at work. The Balti- 
more Circuit was attached to their field, Rev. Lutz of the Baltimore 
field having been sent as missionary to Illinois. This gave them 
superabundance of work. The veteran John Dreisbach volun- 
teered to help them, which greatly pleased S., but D. soon had to 
retire, due to physical disability. J. G. Zinser, P. E., sent them 
John Schafer, a brother to A. B. S. 

In 1840 he was sent to Miami Circuit with Levi Heiss, with 
instruction to give Dayton, Ohio, special attention. This circuit 
extended into fifteen counties in south-western Ohio and eastern 
Indiana. His colleague often failed to meet his appointments, 
and hence Schafer's were not announced. This fact made him 
much additional labor, but he managed to preach once in three 
weeks in Dayton, and once in six weeks at the other points. His 
eflfort in Dayton resulted in the organization of a class of 21 mem- 
bers in the spring of 1841. 

In 1841 the Conference divided Miami Circuit. The part ly- 
ing in Ohio was given to Schafer, with John Nicolai as colleague. 
They arranged to preach in Dayton alternately once a week. At 
the end of this Conference year the class numbered 30 members. 
In 1842 Schafer was again sent to Lancaster Circuit, which now 
was much smaller, bringing him the more often home to his fam- 
ily, relatives and former associates. This caused him great con- 
cern, remembering that "a prophet is not without honor save in 
his own country." But the year's work was successful. In 1843 
he was sent as missionary to Dayton. Steps were now taken to build 
a church. Services were meanwhile held in a room of the old 
"City Seminary." By collecting on adjoining fields he secured 
enough money to begin a church building in June, and was ready 
for dedication on the first Sunday of Sept., 1843. From this time 
on the work prospered with frequent conversions. A flourishing 
Sunday-school was brought into being. Also catechetical instruc- 
tion was given, and a German week-day school was held in the 
church, and through the pupils gained access to many parents. In 
October of this year he again attended General Conference at 
Greensburg, Ohio, this time as an elected delegate. He was ap- 
pointed as its secretary. The Illinois Conference was formed by 
General Conference act, detaching the State of Indiana and Illi- 
nois. In 1844, at the Ohio Conference session, the Illinois Confer- 
ence was formally organized, and Schafer was elected Presiding 
Elder and assigned to the Indiana District, with this understand- 

269 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ing, that if he desired, after four years of service, he might again 
return to the Ohio Conference. 

He now, for the first time, moved his family, choosing for 
their home E. Germantown, Ind. His district embraced the entire 
State of Indiana, and before his term closed extended from Defi- 
ance, Ohio, south-west to Mt. Carmel, Illinois. The fields were 
4 to 6 days' travel apart ; entertainment was very poor, roads bad, 
and traveling all by horseback. Thus he experienced great ex- 
posure, deprivations and fatigue, but all for Christ's and the 
church's sake. In 1847 he was elected delegate to General Con- 
ference, held in New Berlin, Pa. In 1848 he concluded to remain 
a year or two longer in the Illinois Conference on account of the 
lack of men. He was re-elected Presiding Elder. The Indiana 
District having been divided, he was assigned to the Wabash Dis- 
trict. He felt greatly relieved in having a smaller district. But 
the next year Augenstein resigned as Presiding Elder, so Schafer 
was again obliged, by Conference act, to serve the original In- 
diana District. After another year's service on this vast field he 
resigned at the Conference session of 1849, and returned to the 
Ohio Conference, taking charge of Dayton, which was assigned 
to him by the Ohio Conference. Here, for the first time, they 
were permitted to live in a "parsonage" ! It was six years since 
he left Dayton, and he found many changes. The first church 
had been transformed into a parsonage, and there was a new church 
under construction on the front end of the lot, on which the par- 
sonage stood. The basement was finished, where preaching serv- 
ices and Sunday-school could be conveniently held. Schafer, with 
his officers, labored hard to complete the church during the year, 
but did not quite succeed. 

Rev. D. S. Oakes has the following to say of Schafer as a 
man : "He was a wise counselor, faithful friend, devoted Chris- 
tian, a typical Evangelical preacher and staunchly loyal to the 
church. He was a sympathizer with others, comforting and en- 
couraging them. To a Presiding Elder succeeding him, he wrote 
concerning hardships, bad roads, etc., etc., 'When you get into such 
places, think that Schafer has been there too.' Writing to a young 
preacher, in 1863, who had a very large circuit, by way of counsel 
and cheer, he said, 'Remember, you will not always have to travel 
circuits.' He had a fine intellect, acute perspective and clear, con- 
structive faculties, and a retentive memory. He was careful to 
a fault, precise and methodical in keeping his accounts, dates, etc., 
and very punctual. He was about 5 ft. and 9 in. high, broad- 
shouldered, deep-chested and muscular. He was bald, but wore 

270 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

a wig which seemed so natural that few suspected his artificial 
covering. His forehead was broad and high, his eyes mild and 
keen, his nose prominent, his countenance open and frank, his 
appearance impressive, and his entire mien marked him as a leader 
among men." 

His pulpit demeanor and address were imposing and authori- 
tative, without haughtiness or assumption. His preaching was 
generally clear, Scriptural, unctuous, convincing, and ''in the power 
and demonstration of the Spirit." Sometimes he was eloquent and 
almost overwhelming. He was a good expositor, free from vagaries 
and hobbies. When his mental and physical powers began to 
lessen on account of infirmities he sometimes would fail in his pul- 
pit efforts, which greatly mortified him. He had good command 
of both English and German, his voice was clear and resonant, 
and, on the whole, he was far more than an ordinary man. The 
Indiana Conference owes much to him for his faithful, self-sacri- 
ficing pioneer work. He instigated, planned and dedicated more 
churches in our Conference than any one man. 



ADAM R. SCHAFER (1831-1885) 

This man of God was born in Lacock Township, Lancaster 
Co., Pa., Oct. 4th, 1831, and fell asleep in Jesus, Decatur, Indiana, 
April 15, '85. When but 13 years old he was thrown upon the 
cold world, an orphan among strangers, which necessarily circum- 
scribed him in every way, and not least in the securing of a suit- 
able school training. His boyhood days were spent upon the 
farm, where he proved himself industrious and frugal. When 19 
years of age he removed to Ohio, near New Berlin, and continued 
farming. Jan., 1854, he entered into marriage with Catherine 
Ream, and removed to near Greensberg, Summit Co., Ohio. It was 
here, in '54, under the gracious influence of the Gospel, that he 
espoused the cause of Christ, being soundly converted to God. He 
first united with the German Reformed Church, but, later, both he 
and his wife united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which 
he served as class-leader for six years. 

HIS REMOVAL TO INDIANA AND WORK IN THE CHURCH 

In March, 1855, they moved in the Salem Church neighbor- 
hood in Elkhart Co., Ind,, and there joined the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation, as there was no Methodist Episcopal Church there. Here 
he proved himself a true and loyal member, and soon was hon- 
ored with the class leadership and superintendency of the Sunday- 

271 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

school. From his spiritual birth on he was an earnest and faith- 
ful worker, proving himself worthy of confidence and responsibili- 
ty, and developed his best talents for his subsequent life as a 
preacher. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND MINISTERIAL WORK 

Repeatedly he heard the call of God to preach, but, owing to his 
limited education, he hesitated, but finally, as the call became more 
persistent, he yielded and fully consecrated himself to the min- 
istry. In the fall of 1870 the Salem class recommended him to the 
Annual Conference, being also endorsed in this by the Quarterly 
Conference. In Sept., 1871, he was licensed by the Indiana Con- 
ference as preacher on probation, and with S. Kiplinger was as- 
signed to South Bend Circuit. In the spring of 1872, H. L. Fisher, 
his Presiding Elder, transferred him to Elkhart Circuit to assist 
Jos. Fisher and Wm, Wildermuth. In Sept., 1872, he was sent 
with Adam Hartzler to DeKalb charge. From 1873-5 he served 
Twin Lakes Circuit. From 1875-7, Noblesville Circuit. From 
1877-9, New Paris Circuit. From 1879-81, Edgerton Circuit. 
From 1881-4, Waterloo Circuit. In 1884 he was assigned to Deca- 
tur Mission. At the Conference held in Dayton, April 3, 1885, he 
was assigned to Mishawaka charge. On Monday, the 5th, he re- 
turned home well and happy, ready to pack up and move to his 
new field. On Wednesday night he began to complain of pains in 
his right arm and side. On Thursday he told his family that he 
was sick, saying, however, not to be worried, that it will all come 
right again. But instead he grew worse, until, a week later, he 
died. 

He was cut down in the vigor of his life, when yet a goodly 
number of years might have been given to the Gospel ministry. 
But God willed it otherwise. The loss to the family and to the 
Conference was his gain. He was survived by his wife and five 
children. His body was entombed in the cemetery close by the Sa- 
lem Church, which was their church home prior to entering the 
ministry. D. S. Oakes, P. E., had charge of the obsequies; the 
brethren A. Geist, M. Krueger, D. Martz, I. B. Fisher, G. Hoch- 
stedtler, J. E. Stoops, J. M. Dustman and R. Riegel participated. 

He was ordained deacon in Sept., '74, and elder in '76. "As 
a minister he was earnest, loyal and faithful to his trust. He was 
not a sensational preacher, nor a revivalist, but, rather, a clear, 
constructive and systematic teacher of the Word. He was above 
the average in his preaching, sometimes sublimely eloquent. It 
was no uncommon thing for his ministerial brethren to say, after 

272 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

he was through preaching, 'Brother Schafer preached like a 
Bishop.' He was held in the high esteem of the Conference. He 
died at his post." 



CHARLES SCHAMO (1824-1911) 

This brother was born in Lebanon, Pa., April 5, 1824, and died 
in Hicksville, 0., June 26, 1911. His body was interred in this 
place. At the age of 27 years he was converted in Pennsylvania, 
In '47 he was married to Rachel Tobias. Four children were born 
to them. He was licensed to preach in Sept., '63. His wife died 
July 12, 1864, leaving him with 2 children. This greatly dis- 
heartened him. and he thought of quitting the ministry and find 
a home for his children. At the suggestion of his brethren he 
married Mrs. Rebecca Wyant, Oct. 1, 1864, his wife's sister, who 
was then a widow having some children but no home. This gave 
the children a home. To them 5 children were born, 3 of whom 
died in infancy. He was ordained as deacon Sept., 1865, and as 
elder in '68. 

EVENTS THAT LED TO HIS CONVERSION 

Bro. Schamo was reared under irreligious influences. He be- 
came wild and lived a reckless life as a young man, and although 
he was given to great profanity, he never contracted the habit of 
drinking. In his youth he was a canal-boat driver. This was a 
rough life and was conducive to grave evils. He drove canal-boats 
between Philadelphia and Harrisburg. One day, while riding a 
mule, he was thrown in the canal having a depth of 30 ft. of water, 
and came near drowning, but, being a good swimmer, he managed 
to save himself. All his sins and wickedness loomed up before him. 
and he saw what an ungodly life he was living. From this time 
on he began to consider his soul's welfare. 

Another incident occurred in his experience as a boat-driver 
which nearly cost him his life. The cook of the boat by mistake 
put rat-poison into the biscuit-dough in place of soda. A number of 
men died from eating the biscuits. Schamo became very ill also, 
and he said, "I would not have minded to have died if I had been 
saved." Drinking a lot of sweet milk saved his life. He also was 
a great dancer in his youth, even hiring out to dance for money to 
satisfy the carnal pleasures of others. But at a certain revival 
meeting, held near Lebanon by a minister of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation, he was seized with great conviction and resolved to live a 
better life. He told his chums, about 10 of them, that he was go- 

273 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ing- to the altar. They laughed at the idea, but he arose to his 
feet, and, as he left them, said, "Good-bye, boys, I am going." He 
did so, and on the second night he was wonderfully converted deep 
into eternal life, affecting a great change in his life. He united 
with the Evangelical Association. 

HIS CHRISTIAN ACTIVITY AND CALL TO PREACH 

At once he became active in the service of God, and soon he 
felt the call of God to preach the Word. But, having a very lim- 
ited education, he declined the call. He, however, remained active 
in the church and for God. Wherever he went he hunted up the 
people of the Evangelical Association. About this time he went to 
Reading, Pa., and became a member there, following the trade of 
a shoe-maker. He was later elected class-leader, in which office he 
served for some years. In '49 he moved with his family to Day- 
ton, 0., where he continued his trade, and later on moved to Green- 
ville, 0. Here he had many misfortunes and reverses in his busi- 
ness and domestic affairs. His wife was ill much of the time ; 
nothing seemed to go right. God's favor was not upon him. All the 
while he felt that he should preach, but kept refusing on account 
of his meager education. Finally he moved on a 10-acre farm near 
Greenville, but here he did not prosper either. His wife kept fail- 
ing. She urged him repeatedly to yield to the call of God, believ- 
ing that His displeasure was upon them because of his refusing to 
preach. Finally, after resisting the call for 18 years, he yielded. 
The Indiana Conference licensed him in '63, and he was assigned to 
DeKalb Circuit. While on this field his noble wife died. 

When the Civil War broke out he was drafted to enter army 
life, but on account of decided asthmatic tendencies he was re- 
leased from doing duty. He served on the following fields : De- 
Kalb, '63-4; Cicero, '64-5; E. Germantown, '65-7; Vandalia, 111., 
'67-9; Fulton, '69-71; Greenville, '71-3, and Edgerton, '73-4. In 
•all, 11 years. In Sept., '74, he located and moved to Hicksville, 
Ohio, where he remained until death. Here again he took up his 
old trade and made a good living. In '80 he voluntarily surren- 
dered his license. 

He was one of the early pioneers and endured hardships as a 
good soldier of Jesus Christ. He always took a deep interest in 
Sunday-school work and delighted to work with children even in 
old age. He preached both in German and English, although the 
latter dragged heavily for him. His preaching was mostly text- 
ual and exhortative. He had a loud and deep voice, and preached 
with considerable enthusiasm and unction. He laid great empha- 

274 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

sis on genuine conversion, and led many to Christ. But he was 
not without weakness. While on E. Germantown work it was de- 
cided to hold a Sunday-school picnic. Just about the time to go 
the young people decided to have drum, fife and a United States 
flag. This incensed the older members, Schamo included. The 
opposition almost caused a rupture in the society. 

C. H. Hartman, P. C, with other brethren, officiated at his 
obsequies. 



GEO. SCHMOLL (1830-1908) 

Bro. Schmoll entered this life in Prussia, Germany, Dec. 7, 
1830, and passed out June 5, 1908. He was buried in Woodland 
Cemetery at Dayton, Ohio, beside his wife, Premelia Rean. They 
were married in Marshall, 111., and had 5 sons and one daughter 
born to them. At the age of 14 years, when he had ended his 
school work, he immigrated to America. He landed in New York 
City, where he tarried a while. Then he ventured west to Mar- 
shall, 111. Here he became an apprentice in blacksmithing, and 
after he had learned the trade, followed it until he entered the 
ministry. 

HIS CONVERSION AND CALL TO PREACH 

It was at Marshall where he became acquainted with the Evan- 
gelical Association and attended her services. He soon becamiC 
convicted of his sins, repented and found Christ precious to his 
soul. He also now joined the Evangelical Association and became 
active in religious work, making commendable progress. After 
a while he became fully conscious of a call to the ministry, and 
yielded. From the Marshall class he received his recommenda- 
tion to preach. At the Indiana Conference, Sept., 1861, having 
been previously licensed by the Quarterly Conference as preacher 
on probation, he was received into the itinerancy. 

THE FIELDS HE SERVED 

1861-2, Mt. Carmel Circuit and Carmi Mission, with John 
Hoffman. 1862-3, Vandalia Mission in Montgomery Co., O. 1863- 
4, Olney Circuit. 1864-5, Richmond Mission. 1865-6, Montgomery 
Circuit, with J. C. Shuh as assistant. 1866-7, Cincinnati Mission. 
During this time he was also collector for our church property in 
this city. He was quite successful in this work, raising over 
$3,000. 1867-9, Marshall Mission. 1869-70, Huntingburg Sta- 
tion. 1870-1, Rockport Mission. 1871-75, he located. 1875- 

275 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

6, he served Brazil. 1876, to Sept., 78, Bunker Hill Circuit. 1878- 
80, Julietta Mission. 1880-1, Wabash Mission. 1881-3, Laporte 
Mission. He was the last missionary in this place. 1883-6, Wabash 
Mission. 1886-9, Winchester and Greenville. 1889-91, Montgom- 
ery Circuit again. 1891-4, Ft. Wayne Mission. 1894-5, Hunting- 
burg, 1895 he located. In all he traveled 30 years. 

Bro. Schmoll had many hardships and conflicts to endure with 
his much afflicted family. He was moved quite often, which, in it- 
self, made the ministerial life burdensome. He was not a very 
fluent speaker, but sound in doctrine and unctuous in his preach- 
ing. His labors for God were not fruitless. He had average suc- 
cess in winning souls for Christ, but had special success in Wabash. 
He lived a good and consistent life in and out of the church. He 
was devoted to his work, loyal to the church, and faithful to God. 
He was cheerful and amiable in spite of frequent affliction in the 
home, and was esteemed by the brethren. 

Several times his horses ran away with him in the buggy, but 
he never was seriously hurt. In Clay County, Ind., trying to ford a 
swollen creek, he came nearly being drowned by the raging cur- 
rent. After locating he moved to Dayton, Ohio, where they bought 
a small home and spent the rest of their days often in great need, 
receiving annually some help from Conference. He died June 5th, 
1908, in the triumphs of the faith. J. H. Evans, his pastor, offi- 
ciated at his funeral, with G. B. Kimmel, F. Schweitzer, John Hoff- 
man and John Kaufman assisting. 



FRED. SCHUERMAN 

The date and place of his birth could not be ascertained, neither 
the time of his death. He was licensed to preach by the Illinois 
Conference, June, 1850, and was sent to Freeport Mission. In 
1851 he was sent to Dubois Circuit with F. Wiethaup. When the 
Indiana Conference was organized in 1852 he became a charter 
member, and, with A. Nicolai, was assigned to St. Mary's Circuit. 
In 1853 he was appointed to Fulton Circuit and Huntington Mis- 
sion under Peter Goetz. In 1854, on account of bodily infirmities, 
he located. In 1855 his probation as a preacher was retained, hav- 
ing ruefully confessed his former errors to Conference, for which 
his ordination was withheld. But in 1858 he was deposed from 
the ministry and expelled from the church for some misdemeanor. 
Later he moved West, and all traces of him became lost. 

276 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 
PHILIP SCHWARTZ (1819-1863) 

The time and place of the birth of this brother could not be 
ascertained, nor facts concerning his boyhood or parentage. He 
was converted to God about the year '42 on Lancaster Circuit, 
Ohio Conference, at which time he also united with the Evan- 
gelical Association. He remained faithful to God and the interests 
of the church to the end, and was regarded by those about him 
as a truly pious man. In '46 he heard the call of God to the minis- 
try, and, applying for license, was accepted as a preacher on pro- 
bation by the Ohio Conference. He faithfully served in that Con- 
ference until '58, when he united with the Indiana Conference, and 
labored with blessed results until death released him near La- 
fayette, Ind., '63. He bore his great affliction with excellent 
Christian fortitude and trust in God. He was isolated from the 
ministerial brethren during his affliction, which greatly increased 
his sufferings. He often expressed a desire to be soon released 
from his suffering and be at rest with Christ. His desire was 
granted, and he departed in great peace at the age of 45 years. 
The Conference collected a sum of money and placed a suitable 
tombstone on his grave. The Conference lost in himi a useful 
and devoted servant and the family a kind father. He was sur- 
vived by a wife and a number of small children. 

He was ordained deacon in '53, and elder in '55. He served 
12 years in the Ohio Conference, and in the Indiana Conference 
on the following fields: '58, Miami Circuit, which covered Darke, 
Montgomerj^ and Preble Counties in Ohio, and extended over into 
Randolph Co., in Indiana. In '59 he served this same field, which 
was now called Greenville Circuit. In '60-61 he served Huntington 
Mission, and in '62, Wabash Mission, around Lafayette, Indiana, 
where his earthly activities closed. 



FREDERICK GEORGE SCHWEITZER (1842-1911) 

This true servant of God w^as born Pfromdorf, Oberamt Tue- 
bingen, Wuerttemberg, Germany, July 29th, 1842. "His parents," 
he writes, ''were honest citizens, in moderate circumstances, in- 
dustrious and God-fearing." His father, a blacksmith, died in his 
42nd year, leaving a widow with four children. Fred was not yet 
13 years of age, and was the oldest of the four. His mother wept 
and prayed much, and, although only 36 years of age, decided to 
remain a widow. To her best ability she reared her children in 

277 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




FREDERICK GEORGE SCHWEITZER 



the fear of God, "the Lord fulfilling His promise to be a husband 
to the widow and father to the fatherless." 

Frederick enjoyed the usual 
school privileges from years to 
the age of 14, after which he as- 
sisted the mother in providing for 
the family. He was also confirmed 
and admitted as a member to the 
Lutheran Church (1856). In 1866 
he immigrated to America, arriv- 
ing in good health at Keeler, Michi- 
gan, June 27th, where his mater- 
nal aunt and uncles were located. 
His aunt now became a veritable 
mother to him, and ere long he 
found his way to Christ. 

His relatives had already been 
converted and were members of the 
Evangelical Church. One of his 
uncles was the class-leader, Wm. 
Speck the pastor. His uncles gave 
themselves to earnest prayer on his 
behalf, and soon the Spirit of God was working mightily in his 
heart, and, finally, after a severe struggle, conquered. Being well 
versed in the Scriptures and apt to teach, he was besought by a 
class of young ladies to become their teacher. After much and 
repeated urging he finally consented to teach them. " But," he 
said, " it is hard to chop wood when the chips are flying into 
your face," and he felt himself condemned and unable to pro- 
ceed with the class. At a quarterly meeting soon after this his 
heart was completely crushed by a sermon preached by the Pre- 
siding Elder, A. Nicolai. On Saturday evening, January, 1868, 
he went 8 miles through a heavy snow-storm on foot to a protracted 
meeting to Bainbridge, Michigan. The next morning, after a 
severe soul-struggle, God spoke peace. It was to him an inefface- 
able moment. Of this he says, "The grace that was given me was 
immeasurable, and I was constrained to shout, 'Hallelujah.' " Im- 
mediately he felt the inner moving of the Spirit, urging him to 
preach. A mighty conflict began in his soul, a holy shrinking 
from the responsibility, but, finally, he yielded himself with glad- 
ness to the will of God. 

Perceiving the need of a better equipment for so great a work 
he went to North-Western College, located at Plainfield. This was 

278 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

in October of 1868. Here he remained, pursuing his studies with 
g-reat success, for he was an able student, until June, 1870, when, 
by over-taxation in study, together with improper food and rest, 
his health was so greatly impaired that he had to abandon his 
plan of finishing the classical course. Besides, his means were 
nearly exhausted, having to rely wholly upon his own resources. 

AS A MINISTER 

He served the following fields in the Michigan Conference 
with great success: Detroit Mission, '71, with J. M. Fuchs; Ionia 
Mission in '72 to '74. Here he was left to serve alone, which he 
greatly disliked, preferring to serve under an older man. This 
mission had five appointments, stretching out over 65 miles. Here 
he endured extreme hardships, going long distances through 
trackless pine forests, with the thermometer registering 15 and 
20 degrees below zero. On one of his trips he would have frozen 
to death but for the hospitality of a Methodist family. He had to 
get out of his sleigh, time after time, and with his hands dig his 
horse out of the deep snow-drifts, and when, at last, seeing a 
house, he turned into the barnyard, almost frozen stifi", asking for 
shelter. The gruff landlord ordered him off of the place, having 
no time nor room to fool with "preachers." Wearily he turned 
his horse about and started toward home. After having gone some 
miles he happened upon another house where he found hospitality 
and Christianity. He was so frozen that he could not speak nor 
help himself, so that he had to be lifted from his seat and carried 
into the house. Only after much attention did he fully revive. 
This good farmer savs^ him drive into his barnyard, and wondered 
why he did not dismount. After he sat there a while, not mov- 
ing a single bit, the farmer feared him to be dead, but when he 
came to him, found as above described. He never to the day of 
his death could express his gratitude to this man and his good 
wife for thus saving his life. From '75 to '77 he served Lansing, 
a newly established mission, having five appointments, to which 
he added two new ones. The circuit extended 75 miles. He opened 
a new mission in Howell, where no other Evangelical preacher had 
been, and where we had no members. The services at first were 
held in private liouses, later on in a hall over a fire-station. It 
was a source of great joy to him, in his retired days, to see that 
that little beginning has finally grown into a strong society. From 
'77 to '79 he served Owosso, a prosperous field, where he was able 
to enter Lhe home of Brother Kirn. Here he won Prof. G. Kirn, 
Ph. D., now of North-Western College, and his brothers John and 

279 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Fred, all of whom attended his catechetical instruction, and later 
entered the ministry. This has ever been as a toothsome morsel to 
him. In '79-81 he served Bay City Mission, which was, indeed, 
a difficult field, but not without its victories. 

On account of the bitter cold winters and impaired health he 
was advised to seek a warmer climate, and. calling for his creden- 
tials, in 1881, united v/ith the South Indiana Conference. He was 
stationed at Louisville, Zion Church, where he labored three years 
with great blessing. In '84 he was elected as Presiding Elder and 
assigned to Olney District, which he served for 3i ^ years, the Con- 
ference changing from fall to spring. In '87-8 he served Carmi ; 
'88-90, Evansville; '91-92, Tabor. When the Conference was re- 
incorporated with the Indiana Conference, in '93, he was assigned 
to Bremen, and after a year to Indianapolis, 1st Church, where 
he labored successfully for three years. In '97 he was stationed 
to South Bend, 1st Church, and, in 1900, to Terre Haute, Indiana. 
Here he remodeled the church and made other improvements. In 
1901 he was sent to Dayton, 1st Church, where, with great bless- 
ings, he labored for four years. In '05 he was put in charge of the 
2nd Church at Indianapolis. With great expectations did he be- 
gin his work here. On Sunday, March 11, 1906, after he had 
preached twice with great blessing, he retired in apparently good 
health. On Monday morning, when he awoke, he found himself 
unable to arise, having been rendered helpless by a stroke of apo- 
plexy. He believed that he would soon recover and be able to con- 
tinue his work. The Conference, which convened a few weeks 
later, granted the desire of his parishioners and sent him back for 
another year. His strength only partially returned, so that in 
August he was forced to lay down his task. He moved to Dayton, 
Ohio, where he patiently awaited the coming of his Lord. His 
health was sufficiently improved, so that he could attend the serv- 
ices of the church and occasionally even preach. 

Reviewing the 36 years of active service, he could only see 
the wonderful goodness of God, how that by His grace he escaped 
death at various times. As to the number of souls he led to Christ 
he modestly writes : "On every field I served I had the privilege 
of praying with penitent souls." After finishing a brief auto- 
biography he laid aside his pen, awaiting the summons of Him 
who soon would call him to rest. On Sunday morning, August 
the 6th, 1911, after a long and tedious suffering, his Lord came 
to receive His servant. He chose his own funeral text, 1 Peter 
1 : 3, 4. B. Schuermeier, his pastor, had charge of the funeral. 
S. H. Baumgartner, P. E., preached the sermon. J. H. Breish, 

280 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Ph. Vollmer, of the Reformed Theological Seminary, and others 
participated in the services. Interment was made in the Wood- 
land Cemetery at Dayton. His widow, a Henrietta Morganthaler, 
whom he married, March 26, '74, and five children survived him. 

Brother Schweitzer was a reverent and thorough student of 
God's Word and a great man of prayer. He was well versed in 
German literature, using a splendid language, and was well ac- 
quainted with choice poetry, which he appropriately wove into his 
sermons. He was perfectly at home in philosophical works, which 
had a great tendency to make him profound in his preaching. He 
was never trivial in his preaching, but always deep and Scriptural. 
His messages were expository in character, and he abhorred the 
over-use of anecdotes. His messages were always edifying and 
constructive, which were presented in an earnest, unctuous and 
tender manner. He disliked affectation, sham and inconsistent 
and wild demonstration, yet he possessed a deep, emotional nature, 
that was as sensitive as that of a child. He was a great man at 
debate, and could successfully combat with the isms of the day. 
In all his labors he was faithful and punctual. He was a good 
pastor. Although he was a man of conviction, and tenaciously 
clung to his beliefs, he was charitable toward others who held op- 
posite views. In his life he was active and faithful; in death he 
was peaceful and triumphant. 



GEO. E. SPEICHER (1870-1893) 

This young brother was born near Urbana, Ind., Dec. 3, 1870. 
His father, Frederick Speicher, was a prosperous farmer, and as 
a true member of the Evangelical Association, reared his family 
in an atmosphere of faith. George only had a common rural 
school education and followed farming until he entered the minis- 
try. At the age of 7 years he came to Christ under the labors of 
J. K. Troyer, and united with the Evangelical Association. His 
father was a man who spent much time in secret prayer, which 
had a great effect upon this lad, and which led him early to seek 
salvation. When he became a young man he felt the call to preach, 
but gave no heed to it, and, in consequence, lost measurably in 
grace. But in a revival, held in Urbana by Wm. Wildermuth, in 
1890, he was fully reclaimed, and the call to preach became very 
clear again. He told his father he must preach. He was then ad- 
vised to pray over it and make sure. A few nights later, in his 
prayer, he asked God if he would not reveal it to him in a dream 

281 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

what he should do. That night he dreamed he was holding a re- 
vival meeting in Spikerville, nep,r home, where the Lord was do- 
ing great things for him. In the morning he told his father the 
dream, and said, "Father, I don't think I will go there where they 
all know me so well." To this his father replied "that there it is 
where the Lord wanted him to go." He went and began holding 
the meeting in the school-house. The I^ord blessed his work gra- 
ciously. The school-house becoming too small to hold the crowd, 
the meeting was taken to a hall where it continued several weeks, 
resulting in 60 conversions. After this the Spikerville class was 
organized. 

The United Brethren Church of Urbana, of which he seems 
to have been a member at this time, having been married to Cora 
Hippensteel, Sept. 8, 1890, who was a United Brethren member, 
at once, after the above meeting, gave him a recommendation to 
preach. But our people in Urbana presented his name to the In- 
diana Conference of the Evangelical Association, held in April, 
1891, at Bremen, Ind., and licensed him as preacher on probation. 
Then he was sent to Winchester Circuit and returned in 1892. It 
was in one of his meetings at Emmettsville that the call to preach 
the Gospel came unmistakably clear to J. J. Wise. 

In 1893 he was obliged to locate, caused by illness brought 
on by exposure in traveling his circuit. He died at Urbana, Nov. 
3, 1893, where he is also buried. He was earnest and enthusiastic 
in his preaching, which was mostly evangelistic in character. He 
was survived by wife and daughter, Marie D. Martz. His Presiding 
Elder officiated at his funeral. 



IRVIN SPENCER (1882-1908) 

This brother was born. Ft. Ransom, North Dakota, April 12, 
1882, and departed near Mishawaka, Indiana, 1908. His body was 
laid to rest in the Mishawaka Cemetery, J. 0. Mosier and Fred 
Rausch officiating at the obsequies. 

His educational advantages M^ere limited. For a time he fol- 
lowed farming, and, later, occupied the position of a telegraph 
operator. This latter work proved too confining and injurious to 
his health, and he had to quit the same for outdoor work. He was 
converted under the labors of W. S. Tracy at Lucerne, Cass Co., 
Ind., where he also united with the Evangelical Association. He 
moved to Logansport, and, later, on to Mishawaka, at which places 
he acquitted himself nobly as a Christian. 

282 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

His call to preach became clear to him while at Mishawaka, 
and from this class he was recommended to the Indiana Confer- 
ence, which licensed him in April, 1906. North Liberty charge 
was assigned him, which he served with acceptance for IV2 years 
where he had some souls for his hire. While in the very prime of 
his life the messenger of death came and called him hence. 

He was quite gifted in speech and in prayer, and gave prom- 
ise of a useful career as a minister. He had a strong intellect, but 
possessed a weak body, and inherited a tendency toward an early 
dissolution. His preaching was earnest, unctuous and edifying. 
He lived a pious and conscientious Christian life. He never 
married. 



MICHAEL W. STEFFEY (1821-1905) 

Synopsis: Born in York Co., Pa., April 27, 1821. Died July 
25, 1905, at Dayton, O. Buried in the old cemetery at South Bend, 
Ind. Converted Aug., '42. Married to Anna Fisher, Oct. 19, 1843, 
in Pennsylvania. On Jan. 1, '49, he received a Quarterly Confer- 
ence license to preach from the United Brethren Church. Jan., 
'50, he was received into the Evangelical Association at E. Ger- 
mantown as a local preacher. Received into itinerancy Aug., '52. 
Assisted Peter Goetz on E. Germantown Circuit and Hamilton 
Mission. Ordained deacon in '54, and as elder in '56. Represented 
the Indiana Conference 9 times as delegate to General Conference, 
and for the 10th time as a visitor he attended the General Con- 
ference at St. Paul, Minn., in '99. Served 16 years as Presiding 
Elder. One term as a member on the Board of Publication. A 
number of times on the Board of Missions and Board of Trustees 
of North-Western College, and filled other important offices in the 
church. 

HIS ANCESTRY AND DAYS OF YOUTH 

His ancestors were Pennsylvanians. His father was Lutheran 
and his mother Reformed, who were faithful and moral mem- 
bers, but totally ignorant of experimental religion. Among the 
Lutherans and Reformed lived some people of the Evangelical 
Association and United Brethren Church. 

There being no free school, he was sent to a private school 
during the winter months. He had great ability for learning and 
an insatiable desire for knowledge. He enjoyed reading the his- 
torical narratives of the Bible and all other books he could se- 
cure, and thus acquired a good fund of knowledge. 

283 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

STEPS THAT LED TO HIS CONVERSION 

Earh^ in life he was convicted of sin under the preaching of 
the Gospel without knowing what it meant, nor how to obtain 
a change of heart. His pastor taught conviction of sin, but that 
all sin could not be taken away, that the teaching of the pardon 
of sin was false. Steffey was warned against ministers of the 
Evangelical Association and United Brethren Church, who did 
some preaching here. "They were called the devil's preachers, 
with hearts as black as iron kettles." Steffey was told if he fol- 
lowed them "they will lead you to hell." He was confirmed in the 
Lutheran faith when 14 years old. Through catechetical instruc- 
tions he was led to pray each night before retiring, but having 
been taught the impossibility of obtaining pardon and heart pur- 
ity in this life, he did not seek this. He was conscience-smitten, 
and tried to live right, but could not. He tried to love God su- 
premely, but lacked power. When 18 years old he went to his 
brother George to learn the carpenter trade. Here he got into 
ungodly society. Conviction of sin was at first blunted, but later 
he gained fuller knowledge of true salvation. He now sought more 
earnestly, but, lacking aid, again relapsed into apathy. He began at- 
tending Methodist Episcopal services at Blue Balls and Middle- 
town, in Md. ; here he heard a powerful sermon. An invitation 
was extended to sinners to come to the altar, but none came. The 
preacher then asked the members to come forward for a deeper 
work of grace. They rushed to the altar and prayed as never be- 
fore, and such a manifestation of God's power was seen that con- 
viction strong and deep seized Steff'ey's heart. It was a new ex- 
perience to him, from which he could not easily free himself. 

Soon after this two of his chums died unprepared. At the 
funeral of the first a heart-searching sermon was preached that 
deepened his conviction. The Spirit spoke, "If this had been you, 
where would your soul be? Perhaps you will be next." He had no 
rest, nor could not free himself from his sins. Matters came to a 
climax. A friend of his, with whom he spent many days in sin, was 
married and moved to Ohio, Steffey wrote him a jocular letter, 
thinking it would please him. At length a serious reply came, 
saying his wife found religion, and that he was also determined 
to seek Jesus, and pungently admonished S. "if he continued in 
sin, destruction would be upon him." S. now determined "to seek 
the Lord, come what will," and prayed in secret so only he and 
God should know. But at a Lutheran revival in Manchester, Md., 
he came to the altar, but was not saved. On a Sunday, Aug., 1842, 

284 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

he stayed at home to read the Bible and to pray. When the fam- 
ily had gone to church he went up-stairs, opened the Bible and 
read. Tears blinded his eyes. He fell upon his knees, praying and 
wrestling with God. Suddenly peace, like a river, flooded his soul ; 
he knew he had pardon and ran into another room, filled with in- 
expressible joy. 

Great temptations now came. He had been taught "that 
Christians say nothing about being saved, only hypocrites do." His 
brother and a fellow-workman saw something unusual in him, and 
said to him, "What is the matter with you?" S. replied, "Oh, 
nothing." This he afterward deeply regretted. He still held to the 
Lutherans, who said, "You cannot be freed from sin in this life." 
This anew threw him into a hard struggle, silencing his joy and 
robbing his peace. He now sought relief for his soul by attending 
a United Brethren meeting seven miles off. After the sermon he, 
uninvited, followed the minister to a home. After a brief talk with 
the family the minister turned to Steffey, saying, "Have you em- 
braced religion?" "I thought I had experienced a change of heart," 
S. said, "but I am not feeling as happy as when first converted, and 
I fear my religion is lost." Then the minister explained "how 
Christians are tempted and tried, but must cling to Christ; that 
dark seasons in life are no evidence of a lost religion." These 
words greatly helped him, and went away with joy, and did as he 
was told, and found it true. 

THE CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

After marriage he, at first, lived with his father, whom he 
asked to allow the minister above alluded to, to preach in his house. 
Father refused, saying, "What will the neighbors say?" So Stef- 
fey resolved to invite this preacher to preach in his house as soon 
as they lived alone, no matter what the neighbors say. Soon this 
minister regularly preached at his home, but he still remained a 
Lutheran. Rev. Albert, a Lutheran pastor, held a meeting, which 
was "a time of great power." On the first night of this meeting 
A. asked S. to pray. But S. thought it impossible amidst his old 
associates, and asked to be excused. But when the meeting opened 
he was called on to pray. He asked divine help and offered his first 
public prayer. New trials came. He felt like quitting the Chris- 
tian service, but, having made a public profession, and realizing 
that giving up would bring reproach on Christ, he continued with 
greater zeal. 

Rev. Albert was now dismissed for a less spiritual preacher. 
So Steffey joined the United Brethren Church. Experimental re- 

285 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ligion spread rapidly. S. felt to do personal religious work. Often 
while meditating on special Scriptures he imagined seeing a con- 
gregation before him, which he would enthusiastically address. 
One evening, at a revival, the preacher asked him to close after 
preaching. He refused. The preacher looked at him and said, 
''Do you think you can answer this before God?" S. resolved never 
to refuse again. 

In the fall of 1847 he went to work in a paper mill in Mary- 
land against the minister's advice. A year later his little boy fell 
into the mill-race and was drowned. S. got him out and felt it 
was due to his disobedience to God's call. Ere the boy was buried 
he promised God to preach. During the winter of 1848-9 he 
and Jos. Fisher held prayer-meetings wherever they had oppor- 
tunity. The Lord was with them in power. Jan. 1, 1849, he, 
unsolicited, received a Quarterly Conference license to preach. Not 
being fully convinced that this action was of the Lord, he agreed 
with God to do so, provided he gave him liberty on a certain text 
and fruit of his labors as evidence, which thing the Lord did, and 
Steffey's mind was settled, 

HIS REMOVAL TO INDIANA 

In May, 1849, he, with four other families, moved to Indiana. 
He had a one-horse wagon for his family and personal effects. 
The journey lasted four weeks. They kept up their family wor- 
ship on the way. Evenings, where they found lodging, they asked 
for this privilege and were never denied, and in the morning they 
worshiped by the road-side. People passing by stopped, looked and 
listened, then asked, "Who are they? Whence came they, and 
whither are they going?" One landlord said, "I kept hotel 24 
years and lodged hundreds, but these were the first who held fam- 
ily worship." On June 1, 1849, they reached their destination, 
five miles south-east of Noblesville, Ind., where they all settled. 
Here they formed a prayer-meeting class, with Mike Fisher as 
class-leader. A prayer-meeting was a new thing here. As one 
settler said, "They are not in fashion here," to which Steffey re- 
plied, "We will then make them fashionable." These meetings 
were soon over-crowded. 

LOOKING FOR A PREACHER 

These new settlers now looked about for a United Brethren 
preacher and found one who was a good speaker. They invited 
him to come and preach for them. They gave him their creden- 
tials and were then organized in a United Brethren class. The 

286 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

second and third time he came he wanted to receive new mem- 
bers without previous conversions, Steffey objected, saying, "Get 
the people converted first," The third time the preacher said, 
"He had no time to get the people converted." S. said, "In Penn- 
sylvania preachers would not receive members unless they were 
converted," The preacher replied, "Well, we are in Indiana now. 
Here we have so many different denominations that we must have a 
big rake to rake over all this ground," Then said a friend of 
S,, "Yes, to rake all the toads and bull-frogs into the church," 

Steffey, not being able to preach in English, looked about for 
German people and found a large settlement 8 miles away and 
agreed to preach for the people in a school-house every two weeks 
on Sunday morning. He soon had overflowing meetings. He noti- 
fied his United Brethren preacher of these meetings, who replied 
to Steffey, "Go and organize a class." S, replied, "Why, the peo- 
ple are all unconverted, and who should be class-leader? I sup- 
pose the devil," To this the preacher replied, "It is useless to labor 
in German." S,, hearing of Germans 12 miles south in Geo. 
Kloepfer's settlement, went there, found a warm-hearted people 
belonging to the Evangelical Association, just like those in Penn- 
sylvania. Their souls at once were knit together, and their hearts 
beat as one. 

Steffey, with others, went to E. Germantown, Ind., Jan., 1850, 
to attend a quarterly meeting of the Evangelical Association. 
H. Ragatz was pastor, A. B. Schafer Presiding Elder, and Bishop 
Jos. Long was present, who also presided. Schafer brought Stef- 
fey and Jos. Fisher to Quarterly Conference. The Bishop, eyeing 
them sharply, when Schafer presented them for membership in his 
church, asked, "Are these of those who run around from one church 
to another and have no abiding anywhere?" Schafer explained 
"that it was the language and Christian congeniality that in- 
duced them to seek the change." Thereupon the Bishop said, 
"Very well, then, that will do," and received them into the church 
as members and as local preachers. 

STEFFEY BEGINS PREACHING 

In 1850 the Illinois Conference established Hamilton Mis- 
sion, in whose bounds Steffey and Fisher lived. S. now preached 
nearly every Sunday for two years. During A. Nicolai's pastorate 
he held a meeting at Bethlehem, near Cicero, Ind., where he had 
some conversions. Saturday evening, at a quarterly meeting, Cath- 
olic boys snapped corn over the audience. They were told "to keep 
their corn, as they likely will need it at home." They quit. But 

287 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Sunday morning, when the people met to celebrate the Lord's Sup- 
per, they found that some "devil's satellite" had placed the rot- 
ting skeleton of an ox behind the preacher's stand, and over it had 
hung to the ceiling a penned up bull-dog, and spattered the seats 
and walls with rotten eggs. The howling dog was released, the 
skeleton was moved out and the seats and walls cleaned, and Rev. 
Geo. Blank, P. E., encouraged the friends to serve God, assuring 
them that they would get to a place of perpetual sweet-smelling 
savor. 

Bro. S. was urged during the year of 1851 to enter the active 
ministry. He hesitated, owing to impaired health and lack of edu- 
cation. In June, 1852, Revs. Dickover and Keiper stopped with 
him on their way to Conference, and again urged him to take 
work. He agreed with this proviso, that he be allowed time until 
August to arrange home affairs. This was done at Conference. 
He was assigned to E. Germantown Circuit and Hamilton Mission, 
with Peter Goetz as preacher-in-charge, embracing 15 appoint- 
ments from Marion and Hamilton Counties east into Darke Co., 
Ohio. He had good congregations wherever he preached. Once 
during this year he was tempted to quit. But Chr. Glaus, his Pre- 
siding Elder, encouraged him to go on, saying, "It was only a 
device of Satan." 

In 1853 the Conference sent him to Elkhart Circuit with 
J. Keiper as preacher-in-charge. He moved his family to Otts 
Settlement, near Benton, Elkhart Co., Ind., where there was a 
four-roomed double house for a parsonage. On their arrival, Sat- 
urday evening, S. Dickover, P. E., who occupied one side of the 
parsonage, hospitably entertained S. with his family. Here Dick- 
over preached Sunday morning. In closing the service he intro- 
duced Bro. S. as their new pastor who would preach in the even- 
ing. After dismissal the people left the church without shaking 
hands with him or saying a word to him or his family. In the 
evening S. preached as best he could. Then the people left again as 
in the morning. This greatly disheartened him, and said to D., 
after getting home, "I cannot stay here; these people do not want 
me; they do not speak to me." D. replied, "Oh, these are Otts; 
that is their way ; you will fmd them all right when you get ac- 
quainted with them." And he did, for soon they brought provi- 
sions, goods for clothes, split wood, etc. Thus his family of 5 chil- 
dren was taken care of, and at the end of the year he had a little 
money left of his $73 salary ! 

After a few rounds Bro. Keiper had to quit work due to bron- 
chitis. This left S. alone, until Geo. Eckhart was secured. The 

288 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

year was filled with glorious results. At the session of 1854 Stef- 
fey was returned to Elkhart Circuit, with Peter Goetz as colleague. 
S. disliked this, for G. was much older in years and in the service. 
This year a camp-meeting, held at Otts, was greatly disturbed by 
a band of rowdies, led by a Mr. Lacy. They came with clubs. 
J. Fuchs was preaching. S. succeeded in quieting them during the 
service, but in the night the toughs returned and threw firebrands 
on tents and tried to pull them down. Dickover and Steifey were on 
guard, but found they were unable to cope with the mob. They called 
the brethren out of bed to give aid. Armed with ropes and straps 
they tried to capture some rowdies, but failed. A club, thrown at 
S., missed him and struck Geo. Klein on the forehead, knocking 
him senseless. When K. fell one of the mob yelled, "Lacy, you hit 
the wrong man," and ran away. Some now thought of closing the 
meeting at once. But Steff"ey said, "No ! Let us stand our ground 
and show the devil and his followers that we are not afraid. God 
is with his people." The meeting continued over another night 
undisturbed. Sinners were converted and God's people strength- 
ened. 

The next day D. and S. had Lacy arrested and arraigned be- 
fore a justice court, and L. had to pay a fine and costs. This en- 
raged him. Soon after L. met D. on the public road, caught his 
horse, and ordered him to dismount, as he wanted to give him a 
beating. D. struck his spirited horse with the whip, the horse 
broke away, and D. escaped. A few days later Steff'ey was riding 
on horseback through Goshen, Ind. He saw Lacy pointing him 
out to his associates, and heard him swear revenge. After S. had 
gone about 40 yards he saw L. pursuing him. Both applied their 
whips to their horses. L. gained on S. rapidly. Just as S. was 
about to be overtaken he came to a house, jumped from his horse, 
threw the bridle-rein over a gatepost and went inside the yard. 
L. cursed and raved, but soon left. After some waiting S. returned 
to Goshen, took a different route to his appointment. Soon after 
this L. was seen by a farmer trying to steal a horse. Before the 
authorities could apprehend him he escaped and left the country. 
The first year on this circuit Steffey began preaching in South 
Bend, which was the beginning of our work in the city. This 
field was extended the second year until there were 17 appoint- 
ments, reaching up into Michigan. 

In 1855 he was sent to the newly established Indianapolis 
Mission. Brethren from the Otts class helped to convey his fam- 
ily and household goods to Peru, from whence they could go per 
railroad. Coming down a hill just to the north of the city, it be- 

289 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ing- dark already, the harness on his own horse broke, the rig 
rushed onto the horse, which was frightened by it, and began 
to run, rear and kick. It looked serious for a while, but ended 
without serious injury to any of the occupants. In 1856 he was 
returned to Indianapolis. In the two years he gathered a society of 
39 good, pious, working members. In 1857 he was sent to Dayton 
Station, where, he says, "I spent the two most pleasant years of my 
ministry." He received 61 members. In 1859 he was elected 
Presiding Elder and assigned to Wabash District, which consisted 
of 5 fields in each State of Illinois and Indiana, with only two rail- 
roads. He almost exclusively traveled per horseback, or horse and 
buggy. Streams were unbridged, bottom lands often inundated, 
and fording streams was dangerous, exposures were great. He 
spent about one-third of his time on the road. This he regarded 
a great waste of time, and so told Bro. Schafer, who replied com- 
fortingly, ''Well, brother, someone must do it ; if you did not some- 
one else would have to, and so you might as well do it as someone 
else." 

In 1863 he was re-elected and assigned to Elkhart District, 
which reached far up into Michigan. When the Michigan Confer- 
ence was organized in 1864 the district became smaller. He served 
out his four years with success. In 1867 he was again re-elected, 
but, feeling he should be more at home, he resigned. Ft. Wayne 
was now taken up as a new mission and assigned to Steflfey. A 
class of 16 members had been organized here in the past year by 
D. S. Oakes. He served here two years, having 47 accessions. In 
1869-71 he again served Dayton Station and met with many diffi- 
culties. In 1871 he was again elected Presiding Elder and served 
Ft. Wayne District, and was re-elected in 1875, and served Elkhart 
District. In 1879 he thanked the Conference for not re-electing 
him. He was sent to Elkhart, Division Street Church, and served 
it 3 years with good success. In 1882 he was sent for the third time 
to Dayton Station, serving 3 years with splendid results. In 1885 
he was sent to Indianapolis after an absence of 30 years as pastor. 
He then beg-an with no members, but now had 250. Salary then, 
with appropriation, was $275 ; now self-supporting with $800. No 
church and parsonage, now a $30,000 church and a good parsonage. 
In 1887 he was again sent to Elkhart, Division Street Church, 
serving it 3 years. In 1890, and for three years, he served South 
Bend, German. These were years of great concern, caused by fac- 
tions and rebellious spirits, when 100 dissatisfied members left. A 
few ringleaders who were largely responsible for these with- 
drawals were expelled. 

290 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Bro. Steffey, through all church conflicts, remained firm, and 
was uncompromisingly loyal to all her interests. After he had 
given 41 years of unbroken service he located, April, 1893, in South 
Bend, remaining until the death of his wife in 1898. After this he 
made his home in Dayton with his daughter, Mrs. Geo. Freehafer. 
His interest in the church did not abate after retirement. When- 
ever practical he attended the Annual Conference sessions. His 
memory, once so retentive and clear, became in his last two years 
very defective, and in his thoughts lived in the remote past, talk- 
ing of things of pioneer days. D. S. Oakes, who was intimately 
acquainted with him, said of him "that he was a man of keen in- 
tellect, good judgment and fine executive abilities. As an associate 
he was genial, courteous, frank, open, vivacious and cheerful. His 
conversation was animated, interesting and instructive. As a pre- 
siding officer he had clear comprehension and fine tact. He was an 
excellent Presiding Elder. As pastor he was active, consistent, 
sympathetic, and always took a deep interest in the temporal and 
spiritual welfare of his parishioners. As a preacher he was a su- 
perior exegete and textuist. His discourses were not emotional, but 
invariably clear, logical, edifying and convincing. In his work he 
was methodical, which was of a substantial character." 



GEO. CALVIN STEININGER (1864-1889) 

Geo. C. was a son of Ruben and Sophia Steininger, and a na- 
tive of Snyder Co., Pa., born Dec. 30, 1864. He died in E. German- 
town, Jan. 2, 1889. His remains were taken to the old home ceme- 
tery near Rochester, Ind. While he was yet a lad his parents 
moved to Fulton Co., Ind., on a farm about 7 miles north-west of 
Rochester. Here he grew to manhood and was brought up in an 
Evangelical home and community. From youth up he attended 
Sunday-school. He received his education in rural district schools. 

In 1884 he was soundly converted to God and joined the Evan- 
gelical Association. He took active part in her work. When he be- 
came fully conscious of his divine call to the ministry he applied 
to the Grand View class of Rochester Circuit for a recommenda- 
tion to Conference for license to preach the Gospel. This was 
cheei'fully given, April, 1887. At this session he was sent to Akron 
Mission under J, Wales. In 1888 he was stationed to E. German- 
town, where he labored very acceptably and successfully until 
death. Dec. 30, '88, he held a service in E. Germantown and re- 
organized the Sunday-school. In the afternoon he preached at 

291 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Pleasant Hill, apparently in the best of health and joyous spirit. 
His last Gospel theme was, "Go on to perfection." On Monday 
noon, Dec. 31, he took very sick, suffering intensely, until Wednes- 
day morning, when he peacefully passed away. P. A. Orth of 
Richmond conducted the funeral at E. Germantown. D. S. Oakes, 
his Presiding Elder, held another service at his old home, after 
which his body was entombed. "His preaching was sound and 
logical. He was staid and consistent, and a promising young 
preacher. He was survived by his wife and one child." 



HENRY STRICKLER (1828-1856) 

The subject of this sketch was born near Warsaw, Ind., March 
3, 1828, and died near Cicero, Ind., while serving Hamilton Mis- 
sion. His body was interred in Bethlehem Cemetery, near Cicero, 
Ind. He died of typhoid fever and cholera, suffering eight weeks. 
He was converted in his twelfth year in a class of the Evangelical 
Association, located between Warsaw and Silver Lake, Ind., where 
his parents belonged. He then also united with this class and 
became active in the church. Here he grew to manhood. His 
school privileges were limited, as were those of early settlers. 

He was married to Rachel Schnitz, May 23, 1850. To them 
were born one son and one daughter. Their life was one of great 
deprivations, like that of all early pioneer preachers. Mrs. Strick- 
ler related an experience they had in a log parsonage, the roof of 
which was so poor that when it rained she would have to pile the 
bedding under the family umbrella to keep them from getting wet, 
so they would have a dry bed to sleep in. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND MINISTRY 

Quite early in his Christian life he felt that he should preach 
the Gospel of Christ, but from lack of education he declined to take 
up the work. But the Lord gave him no rest. So he finally yielded. 
The pioneer preachers often sorely felt the need of a better intel- 
lectual equipment. His class duly recommended him to the Illi- 
nois Conference, which then covered the State of Indiana. At the 
Conference session of 1848 he was licensed as preacher on proba- 
tion. He then served four years as a local preacher, then followed 
four years of active service. His physical weakness considerably 
hindered him in his Gospel work, and he was soon overcome by 
the ravages of disease. In 1853 he served as junior preacher to 
Jacob Keiper on Miami Circuit, later called Fulton. This field 
then extended over the greater part of six counties, Wabash, Hunt- 

292 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

ington, Kosciusko, Fulton, Miami and Cass. There were 20 ap- 
pointments. The roads were bad, streams had few bridges, the 
woods were inhabited with wild beasts. The hardships, indeed, 
were numerous and great, enough to dishearten a strong man, say 
nothing about a weakly man. In 1854 he became assistant to J. M. 
Kronmiller on St. Mary's Circuit, consisting of about 20 appoint- 
ments in Wells, Adams, part of Huntington, Allen Counties, and 
over into Ohio. The privations on this field were very great, due 
to prevailing chill-fever, and, further, as Kronmiller said, "The 
spirit of disunion among members of the church was quite notice- 
able in places," which added to the burdens. 

In a meeting held by Bro. K. and S., six miles north of Van 
Wert, now Grand Victory, then called Mohr's settlement, Brother 
Strickler, under the power of the Spirit, after seven souls were 
converted in one night, fell into a trance at 8 P. M., and remained 
so until the next day 8 A. M., when he came out of it again. This 
was a wonderful experience. Some thought he was dead. One 
man said, "If this man comes to life again I will believe in this 
work." When he came out of the trance it made a deep impres- 
sion on the citizens and resulted in good to others and to the praise 
of God. In 1855 he served on Yellow River Circuit. He lived in 
Benton, Elkhart Co., Ind., and preached around Bremen, Ind., and 
northward and eastward into Elkhart and Kosciusko Co. In 1856 
he served Hamilton Circuit. 

Bro. Strickler was a tender-hearted man and was often quite 
emotional in his preaching. His relatives say "he was not a great 
preacher, but that his tears, while preaching, caused more conver- 
sions than did his preaching." He had an amiable nature; he was 
sociable with the people and gave them good pastoral care. Dur- 
ing his illness his mind was steady. He was an incarnation of pa- 
tience and of resignation. By the grace of God he was able, in the 
midst of intense suffering, to praise God with a loud voice, saying 
repeatedly, "How blessedly true Christianity is in life, but how 
much more in sickness. Hallelujah!" Thus ended his life in 
victorv. 



CONRAD TRAMER (1824-1902) 

This brother was born in Hemschack, Baden, Germany, Jan. 
13, 1824, and peacefully departed this life in Mishawaka, Ind., 
March 22, 1902. His body was laid to rest in Crown Hill Ceme- 
tery, Indianapolis, Ind. He was survived by his second wife, 2 sons 
and 5 daughters. He was the youngest of ten children. His first 

293 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




CONRAD TRAMER 



marriage was with Elizabeth Pfle- 
ger in Cleveland, O., in 1847, the 
same year in which he came to 
America with his mother. To them 
were born eight children. Here he 
and his wife and mother came un- 
der the influence of the Gospel of 
Christ in the labors of Rev. C. G. 
Koch, pastor of Cleveland charge 
of the Evangelical Association. 
The Gospel seed took root, and in 
1851 they were all converted to 
God and joined our church, and 
continued faithful to the end. He 
was licensed to preach by the Ohio 
Conference in 1856, and was or- 
dained deacon and elder. 

He was reared in the Luther- 
an Church and obtained the usual 
catechetical instruction besides 
other schooling. He obtained a fair German education. After he 
was converted he became active in the work of the Evangelical 
Association. He soon felt that God wanted him as a "herald of the 
cross." He did not hesitate long after this high calling was made 
clear to him. He saw the great harvest white for reaping and gar- 
nering, but that the reapers were far too few. Cheerfully he 
obeyed the call. His class in Cleveland duly recommended him to 
the Ohio Conference as a fit person to preach the Word. The Con- 
ference met in the Hope Church of the Evangelical Association in 
Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1856, where he was licensed and received into 
the itinerancy. 

He served the following fields in this Conference: Lake Cir- 
cuit, 1856, with G. L. Behner. In 1857 he was assigned to San- 
dusky City and served here two years. In 1859-61 he served De- 
troit, in Michigan; 1861-3, Tifiin, Ohio; 1863-4, Cincinnati; 1864-6, 
Wooster Mission; 1866-8, Cleveland charge; 1868-70, Sandusky 
City again. He served this Conference 14 years and was its sec- 
retary for the greater part of this time. This shows that he was 
held in high esteem by the Conference and presiding officers. 

In 1870 he changed his Conference relation to the Indiana 
Conference and served E. Germantown Circuit, which had become 
vacant by the death of Rev. Geo. Wales. In 1871 he was assigned 
to Louisville Station, serving it two years. Then Olney charge 

294 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

from 1873-5. Then Indianapolis, First Church, from 1875-7. 
Then Indianapolis Mission from 1877-80. In 1880-1 he served Lo- 
gansport Mission. Then Julietta work from 1881-4. Here his 
beloved wife died. From 1884-6 he served Mishawaka Circuit. 
In April, 1885, he married Lena Zimmerman, a young woman to 
whom were born one son and one daughter. In 1886-7 he served 
Montgomery Circuit (Phillipsburg), then Richmond from 1887- 
8, and closed his active ministry on Phillipsburg charge, which he 
served 1888-9. Thus he gave a total of 32 years in active minis- 
terial service. 

In these years he underwent many trials of faith and minis- 
terial and domestic hardships. Owing to age and family conditions 
he located and moved to Mishawaka, Ind., with his family, where 
he continued the service of Christ as age allowed and opportuni- 
ties afforded. He was a true and faithful preacher and pastor, 
sound in doctrine, insistent on experimental religion, and consist- 
ent in Christian living. When Mishawaka society passed through 
a critical crisis he tried hard to bring success out of apparent de- 
feat, and yielded to entire English services and to the relocation 
of the church property, although this was hard for him to aban- 
don the old place of worship so near to his home. He, however, 
died before the relocation took place. He served this society for 
some time as German class-leader. During his ministerial career 
he often contributed very interesting and timely theses to the 
ChHstliche Botschafter. 

Seven years prior to his demise he suffered a long siege of 
illness from which he never fully recovered. In his suffering he 
would say, "The Lord's will be done." In the morning before his 
departure he called his friends and pastor, W. H. Tracy, and said, 
"He would soon go." That he had walked by faith, putting his foot- 
steps in those of his Master's." And then, looking up smilingly, said, 
"I am happy in Jesus. Oh, praise the Lord," and with a strong 
voice said to his friend, "Why do you weep? You ought to rejoice 
that I am soon to be relieved of my suffering." Then grasping the 
hand of his pastor, he said : "Oh, you praise the Lord. I am too 
weak." Soon after this he expired. Thus went this man of God 
into the great beyond to receive his reward. The funeral service 
was conducted in Mishawaka by his pastor, W. S. Tracy, in the old 
church, assisted by other brethren, and in Indianapolis by the pas- 
tor of our First Church, F. Rausch. 



295 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

JACOB TROMETER (1809-1895) 

Bro. Trometer, having been a pioneer worker in the Master's 
vineyard in the southern part of Indiana and Illinois, laying a good 
foundation for Christ's cause, we deem it proper to accord him a 
place in this volume. His life was an eventful one. He was born 
in Von Zum^ Hof, Oberamt Welzheim, Wuerttemberg, Germany, 
June 12, 1809, and died June 27, 1895, at the home of his son 
near Hart, Oceana Co., Mich. He attended school at the place of 
his nativity. A good foundation of Bible knowledge was provi- 
dentially laid, on which his Christian life could thrive. Before 
he quit school "the Spirit of the Lord had been working powerfully 
with him." But, as in many other cases, when teachers and preach- 
ers of the Old State Church had no real Christian experience, so 
he, with others, having no one to guide him into the full light, 
made no experience of regeneration through faith in Christ. 

After finishing school he learned the shoemaker trade, which 
work he followed until he entered the ministry. He immigrated 
to America in 1834 with a daughter two years old, and settled 
in Philadelphia, Pa. The journey was long and tedious, full of 
disappointments and sorrows, as his wife and one child died while 
crossing the ocean. From Philadelphia he moved to Ohio, where 
he was married again to Christina Koerner, 

HIS CONVERSION 

In 1836 he came under the influence of preaching by Rev. 
Hanky, a local preacher, and became enlightened as to the need 
of and way unto salvation, and was happily converted to God, and 
then at once joined the Evangelical Association. The joy of sal- 
vation was great ; he could not keep it to himself, but felt con- 
strained to tell it to others what a dear Saviour he had found, and 
earnestly admonished them to seek for the same joy in Christ. 

By the Spirit of God he was led to leave Ohio in 1841. and 
moved to Huntingburg, Dubois Co., Ind. At this time, he said, 
"this place was a wild wilderness, and the people were godless 
and had no regard for Sunday and for holy things." Here, as a 
local preacher, he found ample opportunity to labor for the Lord. 
He began preaching the pure Gospel on Sundays. The people 
came to hear him. He was the first preacher that preached in 
this community. His work was owned and blessed of God, to the 
conversion of many souls. The first fruit was F. Wiethaup, who, 
later, entered the ministry. A class of 20 members was organ- 
ized by him in 1843. He then sent a "Macedonian call" to C. Lint- 
ner and A. Nicolai at Mt. Carmel, 111., then missionaries on Mt. 

296 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS' 

Carmel Mission of the Ohio Conference of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation. They came, inspected T.'s work and took up this place 
as a part of their work. The work prospered. 

Bro. Tronieter now concluded to enter the active ministry. Up 
to this time he had but a local Quarterly Conference license. At the 
Illinois Conference session, in 1845, he received a Conference license 
and was received into the itinerancy, and was assigned to Dubois 
Mission, now detached from Mt. Carmel. In 1846 he was sent 
to Mt. Carmel charge. In 1847 he had to locate due to bodily 
infirmities, and stayed out until 1857, when he resumed the active 
ministry. He served some of the largest fields in the Conference 
with tact and success, even though he was a crippled man, having 
but one leg. His deprivations were great, as one of his own re- 
lated. In these days it took heroic courage to be a true and faith- 
ful circuit rider. In 1862 the Indiana Conference, having great 
confidence in his faithfulness and ability to do pioneer work and 
organize classes, assigned him to Calhoun Mission in Michigan, 
which extended over five counties. In 1863 he was returned to 
this field with John Berger as assistant. His work was a great 
success. But during the second year his health again began to 
fail, and had to locate in the fall of 1864. This was the year when 
the Michigan Conference was formed and organized out of the 
fields of the Indiana Conference lying within the State of Michi- 
gan, and two appointments in north-eastern Indiana. He now 
moved on a small farm near Marshall, Michigan. Later into the 
city, where he again took up his shoemaker trade. In 1882 his wife 
died, leaving him alone and lonely. His children lived in three 
different States far from him. But, said he, "I was not forsaken 
of the Lord." His last 13 years he spent in Woodland, Mich. In 
all Father Trometer gave 13 years in active service, and upward 
of 40 years in the local capacity, which were, for the most part, 
active for God. His biographer. Rev. J. M. Fuchs, of the Michi- 
gan Conference, said his sermons were practical, unctuous and 
full of Bible truths. He had a peculiar faculty of impressing the 
truth upon the hearts of his hearers. He preached the Word as 
he believed it and experienced it himself. His property, to the 
amount of a few hundred dollars, he bequeathed to the Michigan 
Conference. 

JACOB K. TROYER (1838-1905) 

Brother Troyer began his earthly life in Holmes Co., Ohio, 
June 18, '38, and departed at Elkhart, Indiana, July 3, 1905, where 
his body is also interred. He was converted under the labors of 

297 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

John Kaufman at Zion class, Bunker Hill Circuit, in '65. He was 
licensed to preach, Sept., '67, was ordained deacon in '68, and as 
elder in '71. He served as special collector for the liquidation of 
the Conference church debt in '80. He was married to Mary Mil- 
ler, June 8th, '56, and was the father of eleven children, of whom 
six preceded him in death. L. S. Fisher officiated at the funeral, 
other brethren assisting. 

The first seventeen years of his life were spent in the place of 
his birth, where the rural school privileges were enjoyed. In '55 
his parents moved to Howard Co., Indiana, about 8 miles north-east 
of Kokomo. As yet this country was new and heavily timbered, and 
he was obliged to help in establishing a home for the family. The 
land was low and wet, but of the very best kind. The community 
was being largely settled by Amish-Mennonites, whose religious 
life was mostly form, ordinances and outward observances. Wor- 
ship was conducted among them in private homes, but experimental 
religion was a total stranger. 

About '60 pioneer preachers of the Evangelical Association 
came into this community and preached experimental religion and 
conscious deliverance from sin. The Troyer family began to at- 
tend, and Jacob was the first to be convicted of the error of his way. 
But not until two of his children had been taken by death, and 
Rev. John Kaufman began preaching in their school-house, did he 
finally surrender himself to Christ. He had a severe struggle 
bringing his will in subjection to God's will, but at last Christ was 
victor. He now united with the Evangelical Association, which 
brought upon him considerable persecution from the old church. He 
was one of the charter members of the Zion class of the Waupecong 
Circuit. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND WORK AS A MINISTER 

Soon after his conversion the voice of God was heard, call- 
ing him to go forth as a messenger of the Light, to which voice 
he was obedient. He had been serving as class-leader, and in the 
summer of '67 was recommended to the Conference for license, 
which was duly granted him that same year. He was assigned as 
assistant to S. Kiplinger to the Kendallville Circuit in '67 ; Elk- 
hart Circuit, '68. During this year he, with his family, lived 
in one side of the four-roomed parsonage at Ott's settlement, 
D. S. Oakes, with his familj^, living on the other side. Each family 
had several children, and so, with their own hands, they added 
a kitchen apiece to the house. The quarters were crowded, but 
the sweetest of fellowship existed among them during their stay 
together. From '69 to '70 he served Montgomery Circuit, in and 

298 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

around Greenville. From '71-72, Newville, now Linn Grove. Here 
he had many conversions and accessions — with considerable trou- 
ble. From '73 to '75 he served Bremen Circuit, where many were 
saved, and in '76-77, Dayton, First Church; '78-79, he served 
Wabash Circuit; '80, was made special collector for Conference 
debt, in which he was partially successful. In '81 he located in 
Elkhart Co., Indiana, and engaged in garden trucking. Later on 
he moved to the city of Elkhart, where he continued until his 
demise. 

Brother Troyer was a fearless preacher, and was not easily 
embarrassed, yet his self-confidence sometimes got him into the 
"brushes" when he tried to preach. His preaching was biblical, 
practical and frequently unctuous and persuasive. He often had 
the altars full of seekers, and was an effective soul-winner. He was 
of a social disposition, and was an earnest and faithful worker. 
In his later days he was a faithful and honored member of the 
Division Street Church at Elkhart, and labored hard for the merger 
of Division Street and Watchtower Churches. He was one of 
the very first to advocate the merger, but was called home to rest 
before the merger could take place. 

PRESENTED TO CONFERENCE AS A MEMORIAL, BY D. S. OAKES 

Jacob K. Troyer, my genial, blithesome, 
Faithful brother, colleague, friend! 
Is it not meet that I should place 
A wreath of roses on his tomb? 
Once so alive and now so dead, 
And, yet, though he be dead to us 
(Save in our thoughts and memories), 
He liveth still for evermore. 
Though of Helvetian parentage, 
He 'midst Ohio's hills and glades was born, 
Near where the turbid waters of the 
Tuscarawas River roll, he first beheld 
The light of day. 
In early years the family came 
To Indiana's bounds, and settled down 
In Howard County's fertile fields. 
Reared in the Amish Church, he to her 
Tenets held with firm tenacity, until 
In 1865 he came to better life, 
And through ministrations of 
Our veteran Kaufman he was led 

299 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Into the fold of Christ and fellowship with us. 

In 1867 he joined our ministerial ranks; 

He labored hard and faithful, well, 

For fourteen years, and then retired. 

Sanguine in disposition, with pun and wit, 

And, over all, a kind and loving heart. 

He carried sunshine where'er he went. 

But now, alas! 

Its luster his sparkling eye has lost ; 

His ready tongue has ceased to speak ; 

His throbbing heart has ceased to beat; 

But, we believe, with eye that never dims, 

He sees ; with tongue that never falters 

He proclaims the praise of Him by whom 

He was redeemed. 

With heart made pure in Jesus' blood. 

In garments all immaculate. 

He, with the multitude untold. 

Who through great tribulations have gone up 

Before the throne, now^ strikes glad harp, 

And joins, in joyous harmony, to swell 

The song that makes heaven's vaults reverberate, 

The song of Moses and the Lamb. 



CHRISTIAN UDE (1835-1898) 

Bro. Ude was born in Helmsherode, Braunschweig, Germany, 
April 4, 1835, and died in peace Oct. 16, 1898, in Michigan. The 
funeral was conducted by Rev. H. Welker. He was reared a Luth- 
eran. In 1845 his parents cajne to America and settled in Vander- 
burgh Co., Ind., near Evansville, Ind. In 1852 he came under the 
influence of the true Gospel preached by Peter Burgener, and was 
converted to God and united with the Evangelical Association. 

In 1856 he was providentially led to Carmi, 111., where he fol- 
lowed his vocation. At this time there were no members of our 
church at this place, but our preachers began coming in and laid 
the foundation for our future work. Soon people were converted 
and united with the Evangelical Association and were organized 
into a class. He was elected as first class-leader and soon showed 
unusual fitness for the office. The work of the Lord prospered in his 
hands. He had a deep desire in his heart to save souls. He was 
clearly convinced of his divine call to the ministry. He gave up his 
work and consecrated himself for service in Christ's vineyard. 

300 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Having received his recommendation, he was licensed by the 
Indiana Conference in Sept., 1857. He was then sent to DeKalb 
Mission. From now on he wholly devoted his life to the Lord, serv- 
ing 38 years in the active ranks of the ministry, and, afterwards 31/2 
years in the local relation. He served seven years in the Indiana 
Conference. When the Michigan Conference was organized in 
Sept., 1864, Ude became a charter member of said Conference and 
remained an honored member of it until he was called from labor 
to reward. 

On Jan. 8, 1861, he was married to Christina Miller of Wood- 
land, Michigan. From this union issued nine children, of whom 
five died in infancy. He suffered the loss of his wife Dec. 2, 1875. 
He was married a second time to Maria Eilber; to them were born 
seven children ; one died in infancy. 

It was said of him "that he was a kind husband and an af- 
fectionate and indulgent father, who governed his domestic af- 
fairs. That he was an able minister and led many souls to Christ." 
Five years previous to his death his health gave way. In 1897 he 
retired from active service. The obsequies were conducted by H. 
Voelker of the Michigan Conference. 



BERNHART UPHAUS (1824-1901) 

Synopsis : Born in Schalle, Oberamt Tecklenburg, Westphalen, 
Prussia, Aug. 4, 1824. Died Oct. 18, 1901. Buried at Emmets- 
ville Church Cemetery. Converted near Chicago, Jan., '46. United 
with the Evangelical Church. Licensed to preach. May, '48, by 
the Illinois Conference. Ordained as deacon, '50 ; elder, '52. Mar- 
ried to Mary K. Mayer, sister to Melchior Mayer, May 4th, '54. 
Father of two sons and five daughters. Survived by two sons and 
two daughters. 

His father died when Bernhart was hardly two years old, and 
his mother, who was a Berkemeyer, broke up housekeeping in or- 
der to better provide for her children. At the age of 40 she died, 
and Bernhart was left in the care of his uncle. His sister was 
reared by another uncle, and this separation, he said, "greatly 
grieved me, but we were not forsaken, for God led our pilgrimage." 

Brother Uphaus' father was reared and confirmed in the 
Lutheran Church. His mother was catechized and confirmed in 
the Reformed Church. Her instructions had a blessed effect upon 
her son's early life, enabling him to realize clearly his need of a 
personal Saviour. He understood that he could have a definite 

301 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

and conscious salvation from sin, and he diligently searched God's 
Word for it. He often went into secret prayer in order that he 
might experience, what he believed could be attained, but did not 
come to the point of definite assurance of salvation while in the 
old country. During all this he affirmed, "The merciful and saving 
love of God did not depart from me, but followed me continually. 
God's eye watched over me, and his hand led me, his goodness 
accompanied me through my young life." 

HIS IMMIGRATION TO AMERICA AND CONVERSION 

In 1845 he came to America, arriving at New York, July 4th, 
and two weeks later he reached Chicago, the entire journey last- 
ing nine weeks. He said, "God was with me on the way." In 
Chicago he was met by his uncle Gerhart Miller, who took him 
to his country home, on the Esher settlement. They were mem- 
bers of the Evangelical Association, and on Sundays he went to 
church with them. Chr. Kopp was the pastor. During the week 
he attended the prayer-meetings which were held in the homes, 
and it was thus that he came under the Gospel as preached by the 
Evangelical Association. He determined to seek salvation at once, 
and in Jan., '46, found peace to his soul. A wonderful quiet filled 
his soul, and he could truly say, "Ich habe nun den Grund gefun- 
den, der meinen Anker ewig halt." 

During '46-47 he came to a very important epoch in his life. 
Up to this time he worked on a farm, attending prayer-meeting 
regularly. Bishop John Seybert came and preached a sermon on 
1 Pet. 2: 9. His theme was "Entire sanctification, and uncondi- 
tional surrender to God of soul, body and spirit, and all earthly 
store, to experience a higher degree of grace." Uphaus received 
the entire sermon and prayed and searched for more light. Hope- 
fully he laid aside all unnecessary things, and took a new interest 
in all public services. With this consecration he experienced a 
very special blessing and now strove to wholly live for God. Soon 
after this he again heard the Bishop preach on Jer. 45: 25. His 
sermon greatly strengthened and firmly established him, his soul 
overflowed with joy, and as God led him further, he meekly fol- 
lowed. Here and there he began to exhort, the Holy Ghost lead- 
ing him in thought and word. 

HIS CALL TO THE MINISTRY 

Presently his class recognized his divine call as well as he, 
and gladly recommended him to preach. He was licensed in 1848, 
and he was sent with S. Dickover to the extensive Elkhart Cir- 

302 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

cuit, with appointments 25-30 miles apart, requiring 300 miles 
traveling on one romicl. They traveled entirely on horseback, 
which was tedious and hard, both on man and beast. In one year 
Uphaus had four horses. He said, "The first got lame, the second 
had a leader cut in a hind foot, the third became stiff, and the 
fourth endured to the end of the first year." Yet he had courage 
and faith, and God always helped. Victory followed in the wake 
of his labors, and souls were converted. In '49 he was returned 
with G. G. Platz as Presiding Elder, In '50 he was sent to Dubois 
Circuit with Fr. Wiethaup as colleague. These were years of 
blessing. In '51 he was sent to St. Mary's Circuit with Peter 
Burgener. This field embraced a territory from Williams Co., 0., 
south of Celina, 0., and to Jay Co., Ind., thence into Adams and 
Wells Cos., and on up to Lima, Ind. He reports, "That in Wells 
Co., at Gottschalks or Sullens, he preached on a Sunday in a barn 
of Mr. Sauers, who owTied the farm on which the Salem Church 
now stands. Before preaching Sauer informed him that he could 
not allow him to preach any more on his place. After preaching 
Uphaus asked "if any one was present who would open his house 
for some preaching." A Mr. Krepp, y-> mile east of the present 
Salem Church, offered his place. Here was the beginning of the 
old Newville, now Linn Grove Circuit, work. 

In '52 Uphaus became a charter member of the Indiana Con- 
ference. He remained 28 years in active work in this Conference, 
when, by illness of his wife, he was compelled to locate. He served 
the following fields in the Indiana Conference : '52-3, Marshall 
Circuit; '53-4, Dubois Circuit; '54-5, Fulton Circuit; '55-6, Ber- 
rien; '56-7, DeKalb; '57-9, Newville; '59-61, St. Mary's; '61-3, De- 
fiance Mission; '63-4, Fulton again; '64-6, Yellow River; '66-8, 
Waupecong (now Bunker Hill); '68-70, Greenville; '70-1, Celina; 
'71-4, Warrenton (now Elberfeld) ; '74-5, W. Salem; '75-6. Green- 
ville again, when he located. 

Uphaus was naturally of a quiet, timid and reserved disposi- 
tion. He was very conscientious in his dealings with his fellow- 
men. When he felt called to preach he cheerfully yielded. His 
humble nature made him keenly sensible of his unworthiness and 
inability to preach without divine help. He felt the grave respon- 
sibility of the Gospel ministry, but he bravely took up the w^ork 
amidst the numerous hardships which he encountered in the fron- 
tier life. He had a unique delivery, beginning slowly and thought- 
fully, working the tips of the fingers of his right hand in a semi- 
circular motion in the palm of his left hand, until he was well 
started, then, catching the inspiration, he would suddenly burst 

303 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

forth with a loud and thrilling tone on a few significant words, 
then he w^ould come down again, as if to get a new inspiring 
thought. 

His preaching, though sometimes somewhat tedious, was gen- 
erally unctuous and effective. He was a staunch Christian. To 
know him was to love him. In his old age his presence in divine 
service was an inspiration to his pastor and people. He never 
missed a service unless unavoidable. His kindly and fatherly 
admonitions came as a benediction. He was a true pillar in the 
church. His usual posture, while listening to the sermon, was 
that of leaning forward with bowed head. When the sermon be- 
came warm and interesting he would straighten up, look directly 
at the preacher, taking, as it were, the words from his lips as fast 
as they were spoken. 

It was reported of him that at one time he rode to a house to 
make a pastoral visit. He dismounted, tied the horse to a post and 
approached the house. Looking at the door he saw a number of 
women quilting and talking. He excused himself, retreated 
hastily, mounted his horse and ordered it to go on. The horse 
could not go, for it was tied. He nervously dismounted to loosen 
his horse, to the great amusement of the women, and to his great 
embarrassment. 

The brethren J. J. Wise, F. L. Snyder, M. W. Sunderman and 
J. Wetzel of a sister Church assisted C. W. Spangler, pastor, in the 
funeral service. 



ANSON VAN CAMP (1860-1909) 

Anson was born in Allen Co., Ind., Feb. 13th, '60, where he 
grew to manhood, having received a common school education. 
He was brought under the power of the Gospel by the labors of 
J. E. Stoops, while pastor at Decatur, in '86, and was converted 
and united with the Church of the Evangelical Association. By 
trade he was a millwright and owned a grist-mill in Decatur, and 
also, later on, was proprietor of a foundry. 

In the church he was active, filling the office of Sunday-school 
superintendent, class-leader and trustee, and was adapted to lead- 
ership in the church. In '97 he was licensed by the Indiana Con- 
ference as a probationer; however, he never took up the active 
work, preaching only occasionally in his home church. His de- 
parture took place at Decatur, 1909, where his body also is in- 
terred. 

304 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 
GEORGE W. WALES (1844-1870) 

As the youngest son of a local preacher, a George Wales, 
George, Jr., was born October 24th, 1844, in Sandusky Co., Ohio. 
With his parents he came to Fulton Co., Indiana, in 1848. His 
parents being Evangelicals, gave him a careful training according 
to our belief, and at the age of thirteen v^as converted, united 
with the church, and earnestly endeavored to live a godly life. 

He felt and recognized the call of God to preach, and with 
this conviction went to the Indiana Conference session, held in 
Dayton, O., Sept., 1867, when he was licensed as preacher on 
probation, and, with P. Roth, was assigned to Greenville Cir- 
cuit. In 1868 he was assigned with A. Parker to DeKalb Circuit, 
and in 1869 to E. Germantown. Immediately after this Confer- 
ence session he was married to Mary A. Ackerman, and then went 
with her upon his new field. 

Soon after this he was overtaken with a severe malady and 
became very weak, but convalesced sufficiently to resume his work. 
But the latter part of Jan., 1870, he became so seriously affected 
that he was necessitated to resign his work. With his wife he 
came to Kendallville to his father-in-law, where he rapidly de- 
clined, and died March 10 in great peace. He had a desire to be 
restored, but when the doctor told him he could not survive he 
was not afraid, but desired to go home to God. Sunday, the 13th, 
his funeral service was held by Jos. Fisher. Text, Isa. 60 : 20. He 
was survived by his young wife, mother, brothers and sisters. 



WILLIAM WESSELER (1813-1894) 

The subject of this sketch was born in Osnabrueck, Hanover, 
Germany, March 1st, 1813. He obtained catechetical and biblical 
instruction in the Lutheran Church. A good foundation was thus 
laid for a religious life, and he was duly confirmed and received 
into the church. In '35 he came to America, settling first in Bal- 
timore, Md., where he formed the acquaintance of Katherin E. 
Ottig, whom he also married. Eighteen months later they moved 
to Louisville, Ky., where he remained a short time, afterward mov- 
ing to Huntingburg, Indiana, upon land purchased from the Gov- 
ernment. 

HIS CONVERSION 

Rev. Jacob Trometer, having moved to this place from Ohio 
in '41, began to preach the Gospel, and a wonderful work of grace 

305 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

broke out as a result. Brother Wesseler was among the early set- 
tiers that came under his preaching, was converted and united 
with the Evangelical Association. He became one of the charter 
members of the Huntingburg Church, and at the Semi-centennial 
Jubilee of the society he was present and participated in the festiv- 
ities. He, with Rev. F. Wiethaup, Father Elendorf and Mother 
Koch, were the only remaining charter members. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH AND HIS MINISTRY 

Soon after his conversion the call of God to preach was dis- 
tinctly heard. He yielded to the call and found great joy in pro- 
claiming the Gospel message to his fellow-men. He was duly rec- 
ommended by the Huntingburg society and licensed by the Indiana 
Conference to preach. He received his license in '55, and was at 
the same time received into the itinerancy, and gave 13 years to 
the active work. He served the following fields of labor: '55, Du- 
bois Circuit; '56, Warrenton ; '57-58, Clay Co. Mission; '59-60, 
Carmi Circuit; '61-62, Olney; '63-64, Vandalia; '65-66, Hunting- 
burg; '67-68, Cumberland. In Sept., '69, he located, his wife hav- 
ing died during the year. He was ordained deacon, Sept., '56, and 
elder, '59. 

HIS END 

In '81 he moved to Olney, 111., where he was married a second 
time to Margaret Bower. In '90 she died also. Then he removed 
to Evansville, Indiana, to spend his remaining days with his chil- 
dren. A restful and peaceful home was afforded him by his chil- 
dren, Christophel and Henry, who cared for him until his end. 
Following a sunstroke, he becarhe helpless and needed constant at- 
tention until his release, which came May 6th, '94. Five sons and 
one daughter survived him. His pastor. Rev. B. Schuermeier, had 
charge of the funeral, while J. M. Haug, his Presiding Elder, 
preached the sermon. His text was Luke 2: 29-31. 

Brother Wesseler was a highly respected citizen and a loyal 
member of the church. As a preacher "he was successful, and had 
special gifts in working with penitent souls. Many downcast pen- 
itents were lifted by him to hopefulness, and were led to the foun- 
tain of divine grace and forgiveness. His preaching was instruc- 
tive and unctuous. He had the ability to illustrate his sermons 
with parables and object-lessons from nature. He also had the 
gift of song, which proved a great asset to his work in revival 
meetings." 

306 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

He endured some sore trials. At one time, when appointed to 
a new charge, he refused to go, and allowed himself utterances 
concerning the stationing committee that were unbecoming, and 
for which he was censured. He also endured physical hardships, 
such as were common to pioneer workers. On one of his itine- 
raries he was violently thrown from his buggy, which resulted in 
a life-long injury. At another time, while serving Camp Creek 
Circuit, he got lost on the prairie during a severe snow-storm, and 
came very nearly being frozen to death before he found his desti- 
nation. 



FREDERICK WIETHAUP (1813-1897) 

Synopsis : Born in Brauerschaft, Krefinghausen, Hanover, 
Germany, Dec. 15, 1813. Died in Huntingburg, Ind., Feb. 26, 
1897. Buried in Huntingburg Cemetery. Converted Nov. 7, 1842. 
Licensed by Huntingburg Quarterly Conference, Aug., 1846. Re- 
ceived by Illinois Conference at its next session. Ordained as dea- 
con in 1849, and as elder in 1851. Married in 1853 to Mrs. Schroe- 
der, a widow, who preceded him in death. 

He was reared and confirmed in the Lutheran faith, receiving 
along with his general education catechetical instruction. In '37, 
at the age of 24 years, he came to America, and located in Louis- 
ville, Ky. In '38 he moved into the wilds near Huntingburg, Ind., 
where he w^orked among the farmers, until he entered the active 
ministry in the Evangelical Association. 

HIS CONVERSION 

In the spring of '41, Rev. Jacob Trometer, a local preacher, 
possessed of a great passion for souls, moved into this neighbor- 
hood from Ohio to look after the spiritual welfare of the people. 
He was the only minister in this new country. The people had 
alm.ost totally drifted into Sabbath desecration, and were in sore 
need of the Gospel. Doors were soon opened to him, and the peo- 
ple came to hear him who preached in the power of the Holy 
Ghost. They were awakened and saw the error of their ways and 
were led to deep repentance and unto salvation. Bro. Wiethaup 
was the first convert. He said, "I became enlightened and fully 
realized my sinfulness, and began searching the Scripture for the 
'truth.' " Soon he was gloriously converted and experienced what 
is meant by "being born again." This, then, was the beginning' 
of our work in and around Huntingburg. 

307 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

In '43 the Ohio Conference, having heard of the work done 
here under Trometer, sent Chr. Lintner and A. Nicolai as mission- 
aries. Upon their arrival the members were organized into a class. 
Wiethaup was one of the charter members. 

HIS CALL TO PREACH, AND MINISTRY 

He at once took an active interest in the class and her spir- 
itual development. The cause of immortal souls was heavily laid 
upon his heart, and he more clearly recognized the call of God to 
go forth as a preacher of the Gospel. The class-members also be- 
came convinced of this fact and, therefore, recommended him as a 
suitable person to preach. He did not apply for active work at 
once, but in Nov., '46, A. B. Schafer, P. E., appointed him to Mt. 
Carmel Circuit in Illinois to aid the preacher-in-charge. 

He proved himself a worthy servant. In June, '47, in com- 
pany with Phil. Bretsch, he attended the Illinois Conference ses- 
sion, held in Naperville, 111. Here he was taken into the itine- 
rancy and assigned to Elkhart Circuit, with G. G. Platz as Pre- 
siding Elder. In reference to this appointment he said, "It was 
a pleasure to be a traveling minister, with over 30 appointments 
in 12 counties." Only a full consecration to God for service and 
a constraining love for souls could bring pleasure into such ardu- 
ous pioneer work. He also said, "The Lord was with us and gave 
us now and then great success." 

Wiethaup was a successful frontier worker. He was a master 
of the Scripture, almost knowing the Bible by heart. He had a 
splendid memory and could quote Scripture as but few could. He 
could beautify his sermons and make them more effective by re- 
citing poetry very appropriately. His sermons consisted largely 
of Scriptural citations and poetry so aptly and logically put to- 
gether, that deep and pungent conviction seized and led sinners to 
repentance and salvation, and greatly strengthened the believers. 
It was said of him "that his equal in memorizing and quoting 
Scriptures correctly was scarcely to be found in the church. He 
was a man full of faith, courage, perseverance and of the Holy 
Ghost. , The committee on memorials said of him, "He was a man 
of unwavering fidelity and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, always 
at his post and ready for work." 

He served the following fields : In the Illinois Conference : 
Mt. Carmel, '46-7; Elkhart Circuit, '47-8; St. Mary's Mission, 
'48-9; DeKalb Circuit, '49-50; Dubois Circuit, 50-2. In the In- 
diana Conference: Mt. Carmel, '52-3; Evansville, '53-5; Newville, 
'55-7; Fulton, '57-8; Yellow River, '58-60; E. Germantown, '60-1; 

308 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

Dayton Station, '61-3; Huntingburg-, '63-5; Warrenton, '65-7; In- 
dianapolis, '67-8; Evansville again, '68-70; Huntingburg again, 
'70-2. He now located, due to impaired health. But in '76 he took 
up work again in the new South Indiana Conference, and was as- 
signed to Rockport, which he served V/y years, and Huntingburg 
again for i/> year. 

Having no heirs, he remembered the church in his will, be- 
queathing $600 to the General Missionary Society ; $100 to benevo- 
lent work; $100 for a new church in Huntingburg, Ind., and the 
rest, after all expenses were paid, was to be given to the mission 
work in Germany and Japan. He died peacefully. H. Schleucher, 
pastor, and C. F. Hansing, P. E., officiated at his funeral. 



SOLOMON WILDERMUTH (1820-1897) 

Father Wildermuth was born in Fairfield Co., 0., Dec, 1820, 
and died Sept. 12, 1897, in Fulton Co., Ind., and his body was in- 
terred in the Salem Cemetery in the southern part of the county. 
In 1843 he was married to Emily Miller, with whom he lived over 
50 years. In 1864 they moved to Fulton Co., Ind., on a farm, about 
12 miles south of Rochester. 

At the age of 19 years Solomon came under the special in- 
fluence of the Gospel of Christ in a Methodist meeting, and was 
gloriously converted. He then united with the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation, and remained a true, loyal and faithful member of it for 
over 57 years. He led a pious and devoted Christian life, always 
letting his light shine at home and abroad for Christ, everywhere 
exerting a strong and helpful influence. 

Recognizing and heeding the divine call to preach, he was rec- 
ommended by his class in Fairfield Co., Ohio, to the Ohio Confer- 
ence of 1859 for license, which the Conference granted him. He 
never entered the active ministry, yet he was engaged as a local 
preacher until his eyesight became defective. When he preached 
he did so with zeal and unction and general satisfaction. It was 
said of him "that he was a faithful attendant at public serv- 
ices as often as it was possible. His presence was a source of in- 
spiration to pastor and people. He had a patriarchal bearing, and 
was often called "the Bishop" among the local preachers. His 
prayers and exhortations were attended with power. 

On the Sunday morning of his death, while out on the veranda, 
being ready for Sunday-school, he conversed on religion with his 
son-in-law, Rev. Bernetty. "He had just expressed himself, in his 

309 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

decisive manner, upon the prime and essential duty of Christians 
to exert a right influence, and to let their lights shine at home," 
He said "when this was well done it would be more effectual than 
profuse professions of great attainments, and such could then with 
grace go out into the world and commend the salvation of God 
to the world." After a short silence he began to lean back as if to 
rest, when his spirit took its flight. He often had expressed him- 
self as being ready to die whenever it was the Lord's will. He 
was a man of rich experiences and clear and decided convictions. 
He was survived by his wife, one brother, four sons, one of 
whom is William, a minister of the Indiana Conference, and four 
daughters. Three daughters preceded him in death. D. S. Oakes 
conducted the funeral and preached the sermon, assisted by Revs. 
Wales, Metzner and Bernetty. 



CHRISTIAN WESSLING (1827-1909) 

Rev. John Henry Gottlieb Christian Wessling was born in Ku- 
tenhausen. Province Westphalen, Germany, July 23, 1827. His 
father's name was Frederick, and his mother's maiden name, Mary 
Elizabeth Wiese, of Hallen. Christian, as he was commonly called, 
was the oldest child. Of his boyhood days he says, "I was very 
wild, so mischievous that I often was whipped by mother and in 
school, not for indolence, but for foolish doings." He had to, at 
first, be driven to school ; learning went very hard, but after awhile 
became easy, and school life was a delight. His father taught him 
Sundays to read and work problems. At eleven years he often 
stood at the head of 300 scholars. He memorized easily. At twelve 
years he attended a newly established school near home, where he 
continued to lead his classes. He also received catechetical instruc- 
tion in Minden, in the Marier society, and on Easter, 1842, he was 
confirmed with seventy-one others. Rev. Mensing gave him as a 
remembrance thought, "Through your lifetime keep God before 
your eyes and in your heart; watch, that you may not consent to 
any sin, nor transgress any of God's commands." 

His parents were farmers. At the age of eleven C. had to 
work on the farm. His father died in 1842, leaving the work of 
farming largely to him. His father purposed to educate him. for 
a school teacher, but, owing to his lingering illness and death, the 
plan failed. Owing to his illness and other expenses, the small 
farm became encumbered and, moreover, young Christian, becom- 
ing afraid of having to become pious in order to become a school 

310 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

teacher, refrained from fitting himself for this work. Mother 
rented the land, and, to his delight, hired him to a farmer for one 
year. After his mother's remarriage he returned home, but left 
again in the fall of 1843 for Brake, at Dortmus, ninety miles away, 
and hired out to Geo. Bier. Eighteen months later he returned 
home to learn the carpenter trade, but his mother objected, owing 
to his youthfulness, and to the fact that his father ruined his 
health at this trade. He then became hod-carrier, and the fol- 
lowing spring an apprentice in stone-cutting, at which he con- 
tinued one year at 12 cents per day. There being an abundance 
of work on the Koelner-Mindener Railroad, he worked for this 
company for three shillings per day. He was now twenty-one 
years old. Incessant work w^eek days and Sundays made him very 
sick, that on a Monday he thought he would die. To his sickness 
was added the anxiety for his soul, believing he would be lost if he 
should die. He prayed God to spare his life, but toward evening 
the fear of death reaching its zenith, he vowed to God, if he would 
.spare his life, he would do better. That night he dreamed he was 
dying; he felt death begin on his big toes and creep up higher and 
higher until he felt himself dead. After death he saw himself clad 
in white, within a big building with a long hallway, in which he 
walked to a place where, on his right, a door stood ajar about four 
inches. Inside was a large room with an inconceivably glorious, 
golden chandelier; but he could not enter. Depressed, he came 
back, and came to a wide open door, and leaned on the left door- 
post. The floor of the room, to which this door entered, was six 
or seven feet below where he stood. The room was thronged with 
people, encircled with flames of fire, with Satan between them with 
a big fork mixing up people and fire. Astonished he stood for a 
good while, looking on this awful scene, then decided to go home 
and tell his people to repent that they would not come into this 
place of woe. Arriving at home he met his mother and a neigh- 
bor woman in the yard, and began narrating his experience, ex- 
horting them to turn to the Lord that they might escape this ter- 
rifying place. While telling his experience he awoke from his 
dream. 

Though it was but a dream, it made such a deep impression on 
his mind that he was constantly disturbed within. His sickness 
was now under control ; he quickly recovered. From now on he 
prayed daily before sleeping, but lacked strength to sever his con- 
nection with frivolous men. Evenings he vowed to do better the 
next day, only to repeat his previous day's sinning. Amidst the 
worldly pleasures a voice within said : "You, you, what are you do- 

311 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ing again?" This continued until the beginning of February, 
1848, when he, with other young men, went to a spinning party to 
escort the young ladies home. But at 7:30 P. M. the party re- 
sorted to the threshing floor for a dance, in which he also in- 
dulged. This occurrence made a deep negative impression on him. 
He withdrew, seated himself in a dark place of a room, and again 
a voice said: "What kind of a fool are you? You should know that 
you need a change of life. You promised your life to God, and here 
you bring terrible self-accusation upon yourself." A fearful re- 
bellion arose in him, but he now resolved to become a new man, to 
disassociate with the ungodly and mingle with the pious. Present- 
ly the dancers came in where he was. He told them his resolve, 
saying that they all ought to be ashamed of their doings, and that 
this was the last time that he would be with them, but they only 
laughed him to scorn. 

Monday, on the w^ay to his work, he saw the stone-cutter, Mr. 
Krumme, a pious man, whom Wessling previously avoided on ac- 
count of his piety, but this morning he waited when he saw Mr. 
Krumme coming towards him. After the usual salutation, Wess- 
ling was asked by Krumme if he was not willing to be converted. 
This question smote him deeply; he could not answer. Krumme 
repeated the question with greater effect, and again a third time, 
after which W. earnestly answered, "Yes !" Mr. Krumme then 
told him to pray. From then on Wessling associated with the be- 
lievers, visited their meetings, made it his rule to kneel and pray 
before retiring and after rising. In the two and one-half years 
that he was yet at home he never neglected this duty. He ex- 
pected God to answer at once and give him a new heart, but the 
more he prayed the heavier became the load of sin, often almost 
unbearable. One evening he visited, on the way home from work 
with Krumme, a sick sister. After arriving at home he found 
that his parents had retired for the night. Mother had placed his. 
supper on the table for him. He sat down, and, as usual, wanted 
to pray, when a voice said to him, "You need not pray now, as no 
one sees you." A great struggle began ; his hair seemed to stand 
on end; the house seemed full of evil spirits, but he prayed. He 
firmly believed if he had yielded to the voice he would have been 
crippled in his conversion. 

Soon after this he was urged by former society members to 
meet with them at a specified place to indulge in drinking, eating 
and smoking. He told them that he served the devil long enough; 
"if you want to serve him you can." A few days later a counsel 
was held ; the society resolved that he must pay fifty cents' fine 

312 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

and take back his insinuation that they served the devil. He told 
them if they can prove the contrary with what they do, he would 
pay his fine. They then expelled him from their society and re- 
fused to aid him in work. When he left them a voice said to him, 
"You renounced the devil, the world cast you out, and God has 
not accepted you, and you are now rejected by everybody." This 
cost him a great conflict. He became for a while unconscious of 
himself, but when consciousness returned he was determined, even 
though God would not accept him, not to serve the devil. Then 
followed a blessed joy in his heart, and he said, "If I had under- 
stood it, this would have been the moment of my acceptance." He 
continued praying. On the last Thursday morning in February, 
1848, the matter became very serious ; he often knelt, even on the 
way to work. The last time he wrestled long with God, when he 
arose something said, "There is no grace for you." Then tears of 
sorrow and suffering flowed down his cheeks, and, looking in 
the spirit to the cross, he said, "No one is excluded from grace; 
why, then, should I be excluded?" Suddenly came a mighty stream 
of joy, with joyous weeping, and burden gone, and sweet peace in 
the soul. Ten days later he heard a sermon read on the charac- 
teristics of a true faith. This reconvinced him that he was born 
again, and was now God's child, and that ten days previous his sins 
were pardoned. Such a joy came over him that for awhile he 
was not conscious of self. This was the witness of the Holy Spirit. 

HIS CALL TO THE GOSPEL MINISTRY 

Soon after his conversion he had a vision of the moral con- 
dition of the people of his homeland. Suddenly came an inner 
voice, "Go and preach to them." He was frightened and thought 
the voice was of the devil. He could not believe it possible that a 
poor, uneducated stone-cutter should preach when there were edu- 
cated and pious pastors. He asked God to deliver him of this de- 
lusion, but the thought re-echoed in him, "You go and preach to 
them." He kept praying for deliverance, fearing he might be- 
come proud, but the more he prayed the mightier the call to preach. 
On a Saturday afternoon, when he and Krumme parted for home, 
Krumme said to Wessling, "I have something important to tell 
you. There are so few that work for the conversion of the world 
that I believe it is God's will that you should yield yourself for 
missionary work." Wessling felt hit as by lightning and deeply 
thought the matter over, then concluded that these thoughts might 
not be of the devil after all. When he got home his parents were 
in the harvest field. Having the house alone, he locked the door, 

313 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

entered a room upstairs, with the thought not to arise from his 
knees until God answered whether this impression was from him 
or of the devil. He renewed his consecration to God, prayed long, 
finally arose, walked to and fro, considered the struggles and temp- 
tations he had already passed through, and wondered if he must 
continue in uncertainties. Again he fell on his knees, a second 
and then a third time, until suddenly a mighty conviction seized 
him that the Lord really wanted him to preach. The words of 
Jeremiah came to him, chapter 1 : 6, 7. He now felt right. 

What to do next he knew not. He counseled with his friend 
Krumme, then he went to see his enlightened, if not converted 
pastor, and told him his experience. He befriended Wessling and 
applied for him to the Rheine Missionary Society, and later ar- 
ranged to have Wessling come to him one hour at noon each day 
for Scriptural instruction. This continued for some time without 
his parents' knowledge, until they found out through other people. 
One day his mother wept, saying, "You want to leave me and go 
into the heathen world ; God grant me to die before you go," upon 
which he tried to comfort her. He had to write a sketch of his 
life to the missionary society, and all was ready in the fall of 1850 
for him to be received into the society for training. 

At this time war threatened to break out between Austria and 
Prussia. He had to enlist as a soldier and was sworn in August 
18, 1850. At this time his mother took sick and soon died in peace. 
About eighteen months after his conversion he discovered a moral 
weakness (anger), caused by the breaking of a stone when nearly 
done. He felt the need of more grace, and complete deliverance 
from worldly affections. He watched over his tendencies, 
thoughts, desires, feelings and wished to be entirely sanctified. 
He could not tell just when it was done, but he knew he possessed 
perfect love. 

On the day he was sworn in as a soldier he was encamped 
with others in the Weingarden of Minden. Most of the soldiers 
were drunk. At bedtime a voice said, "Kneel at the bed and pray." 
"No," said another voice, "that would be casting pearls before 
swine; go down into the yard, where a small house stands, where- 
in you can pray." To this idea he yielded, tried to pray, but failed. 
This was the beginning of his first backsliding, though he yet 
prayed every day. He soon became a leader in jests. Two years 
and a half had now been spent in army life. He belonged to the 
first battalion of the National Police recruits, and marched over 
Herford, Dekenold, etc., then returned, encamping in Bielefeld. 
Here religious meetings were held in tents which he attended, and 

314 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

evidently renewed his covenant with God. Going back to Minden 
he took seriously sick, remaining- so for some time in a hospital, 
"Lazereth." When he had recovered he was, over his protest, 
compelled to learn drumming, but never became expert in it. In 
the spring of 1851, at Muenster, he became a part of the 4th com- 
pany. Here he attended Y. M. C. A. meetings. As he had no 
place where he could be alone, he often went into the Catholic 
cathedral to pray. The Lord helped him through wonderfully. 
The recruits were drilled by a sergeant who was a drunkard. His 
associates often treated their officers, but Wessling renounced all 
strong drink and would not, by treating, seek favors from the offi- 
cer, if he could not get them by good conduct. The officer soon 
found that in Wessling he had no pet, and began to oppose him in 
many ways and abuse him. One day, after having been insulted 
by him, Wessling's anger was aroused. The thought came to bay- 
onet the officer. He took the weapon from off his shoulder, when 
a voice said to him, "Do you not know w^hose spiritual child you 
are?" He just had time and grace enough left to avoid murder. 

He often suffered want at this time, with the rest, crops hav- 
ing failed. In his distress he went into a cellar, prayed to God 
for aid. He had nothing to eat for supper. The next morning 
before drilling the paymaster called him and paid him his wages 
in advance. God answered his petition. Among the soldiers he 
sought ideas for missionary work, but, to his sorrow, found that 
many appointees of the Lutheran Missionary Institution were edu- 
cated, but not converted. xA.fter two and one-half years' of army 
life he was discharged. Returning home he found his step-father 
had married and emigrated to America, so he had no home. In 
the spring of 1854 W. went to Bremen, earned enough money dur- 
ing the summer to emigrate to America. After fifty-three days' 
voyage he arrived in New York, December 14, and went on to 
Philadelphia to his step-parents, where he remained and worked in 
an oil-mill. In the spring of 1854 he found work as a stone-cutter. 
Sundays he went to Lutheran churches. He was advised to enter 
the Lutheran Seminary and prepare for the ministry. Meanwhile 
he became acquainted with German Baptists and German Metho- 
dists, but neither denomination suited him. His landlord next took 
him to the church of the Evangelical Association, North 2nd Street, 
Philadelphia. Rev. J. M. Saylor was pastor. Here he felt better 
satisfied. The society had twelve classes, had much spiritual life, 
frequent shoutings in their prayer-meetings. This part he did not 
like so well, believing it to be fanaticism. One Sunday night the 
pastor invited sinners to the altar. Many came. Wessling also 

315 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

came, prayed earnestly and received a new blessing. He was filled 
with the Holy Ghost and the loudness in worship was no longer 
in his way. After he got home from this meeting he knelt and 
asked God if he should join these people, and received a clear evi- 
dence that he should, which he did early in 1855. 

In the spring the Conference was held in the 2nd Street 
Church, Philadelphia. Wessling applied for work, but received 
none. Bishop J. Long, who held the Conference, wrote to Bishop 
J. Seybert in his behalf, who held the Indiana Conference. Early 
in May he started for Colebush, Mishawaka Circuit, where the 
Indiana Conference was held. Being delayed on the way he arrived 
too late to enjoy the session. The stationing was ended, and he 
was appointed assistant to Brother Goetz on St. Mary's Circuit. 
In his heart he hoped he would not be taken, he wished to go to 
Chicago and work at his trade a few more years, to earn enough 
money to buy a home, then serve the Lord with his whole heart. 

St. Mary's Circuit consisted of twenty appointments, 220 miles 
per round. He preached his first sermon at Fuhrman's, on Gen. 
1 : 28. Goetz was present. On the way from church Goetz rather 
scornfully remarked that two preachers preached today without 
the people knowing where the text was. Wessling announced his 
text. Gen. 28: 1, instead of 1: 28. Wessling thereupon stayed 
back, resolved to quit. After this vow he hurried up to Goetz, 
saying, "I have decided to quit; I made an effort to preach and 
failed." Goetz replied, "We don't give up so quick." This inci- 
dent caused him many struggles. For hours he lay kneeling on 
the ground in the woods for God to help him. 

In 1856 he served with Jos. Fisher on Mt. Carmel and Olney. 
They had 100 conversions. In 1857-8 he served Dubois Circuit, 
with M. Hoehn in charge. His salary was fixed at $78.00, but 
received $300.00 ; the surplus flowed into the Conference treasury, 
to be divided among those who fell short. In 1859 he served Ol- 
ney and West Salem with good revivals. In 1860-61 he served San- 
doval, 111., and 1861-62, Camp Creek. In 1862-63, Clay County 
Mission; 1863-65, Newville Circuit (now Linn Grove); 1865-67, 
Van Wert. On a bitter cold day, six miles north of Fort Wayne, 
he froze both his ears. He preached several times in the court- 
house of Fort Wayne, but nothing was accomplished. In 1867-68 
he served Warrington Circuit ; 1869-70, Lancaster and West Sa- 
lem, where he had many conversions; 1870-73 he served Carmi, 
and had m.any converts ; 1873-6 he served Huntingburg. When the 
South Indiana Conference was formed in 1876 he united therewith 
and served Huntingburg until 1877; West Salem again from 

316 



LIFE SKETCHES OF OUR DECEASED MINISTERS 

1878-80, and Sandoval in 1881; Marshall in 1882; Lancaster in 
1883-84; Grayville, 1885-86. His health failing, he made a trip 
to Galveston, Texas, and other places. The climate agreeing- with 
him, and after prayer to God for direction, he felt assured that 
he should move to Texas. At the session of the South Indiana 
Conference, Bishop J. J. Esher appointed him to Henrietta Mis- 
sion in Texas. They arrived here April 1, 1886, organizing a class 
a few months later. The old court-house was bought for a church 
and parsonage. In 1887 he bought land near Henrietta, built a 
house on it and moved in. 

He was ordained deacon in 1857 at Dayton, and elder two 
3^ears later. In all he served thirty years in the active ministry. 
He was a faithful, diligent, conscientious laborer, and had many 
souls for his hire. He died August 23, 1909, in Henrietta ; was 
married to Margaret Bachman in 1856, and five daughters and 
two sons were born to them. He selected his own funeral text, 
2 Tim. 4: 7-8. Rev. S. J. Luehring preached at his request. His 
preaching was plain, unctuous and effective ; he had no patience 
with sham religion. He is gone but not dead ; his works live on. 



MICHAEL ZIMMER (1817-1891) 

This brother was born at Rothbach, Alsace, France (now 
Germany), Nov. 21, 1817. He died in Garrett, Ind., very sudden- 
ly, Aug. 20, 1891, fully prepared for his departure. He came to 
America in 1843, and shortly thereafter married Sophia Hem- 
linger. He was converted in 1846 in Mishawaka, Ind., and was 
one of the first fruits of the efforts of the Evangelical ministry at 
this place. They united with the Evangelical Association and be- 
came active participants in the work of the church. In 1855 he 
heard and obeyed the call to preach, and obtained his recommenda- 
tion from his class and license as preacher on probation by the In- 
diana Conference. He remained a faithful local preacher to the 
.end. D. S. Oakes, his biographer, said of him, "He was an excep- 
tional, upright Christian, exemplifying the religion he professed. 
He preached a plain and sound Gospel, rather seeking God's glory 
than his own, and sought to save men. His best preaching was 
his daily life. He was also a liberal supporter of the church, espe- 
cially the missionary cause, for which he gave many munificent 
contributions, given unostentatiously and often with great self- 
denial." 

317 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

When he moved to Garrett, Ind., he tried to work up a class 
of the Evangelical Association among the Germans, but, failing 
in this, he finally, after long hesitation, joined the German Metho- 
dist Episcopal Church at this place, believing by so doing he could 
be more useful and exert a better influence than to ^tand isolated. 
At the annual session of the Indiana Conference of 1887 creden- 
tials were voted him as local preacher by his own request. 

He was ready for his sudden departure. Saturday night he 
retired as usual, but Sunday morning he was with the redeemed in 
heaven. D. S. Oakes, who was his pastor three different times, 
was called upon to preach the funeral sermon. He was assisted 
by Revs. Haas and Bauer of the German, and Mantz of the Eng- 
lish Methodist Episcopal Church in Garrett. His body was laid 
to rest in the cemetery at Bremen, Ind. He was survived by his 
wife, 2 sons and 2 daughters. 



;i8 



INCORPORATION OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Articles of Incorporation of the Indiana Conference. 

In 1861 the first steps for the incorporation of the Indiana 
Conference of the Evangelical Association were taken. G. G. 
Platz, Phil. Bretsch and Mich. Krueger were appointed a commit- 
tee to carry out the incorporation during the year. 

At the annual session of the Conference, held in Sept., 1862^ 
in East Germantown, the committee, above named, reported that 
the incorporation was eft'ected as follows : 

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION 

We, the undersigned members of the Indiana Conference of 
the Evangelical Association of North America, for the purpose of 
organizing ourselves into an incorporate body, the object of which 
is the promotion and furtherance of the religious, moral, educa- 
tional and benevolent enterprises of the church and Conference, 
do hereby ordain and institute the following articles of association : 

Article I. — This association shall be denominated the In- 
diana Annual Conference of the Evangelical Association of North 
America. 

Article II. — The object of this organization and incorpora- 
tion shall be the promotion of the educational and benevolent en- 
terprises of the Conference and church, embracing such interests 
as the missionary society, the educational institutions, and such 
like interests, to receive, hold and manage, any money, land or 
other property, personal or real, purchased by, or donated, or be- 
queathed to said Conference, for this or other religious and benev- 
olent objects. 

Article III. — The officers of this Conference shall be a Pres- 
ident, Vice-President, Secretary and a Treasurer, who shall be 
charged with the duties usual to such office. The Bishop, presid- 
ing over the Annual Conference, shall be the President; the Vice- 
President shall be elected annually by a majority cf the members 
present and voting; the Secretary shall be the same elected ac- 
cording to the Discipline and usages of the Evangelical Associa- 
tion as Secretary of the Conference ; the Treasurer shall be elected 
annually by a majority of the members present and voting; all of 
whom shall hold office until their successors are chosen and quali- 
fied. 

319 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Article IV. — The said Conference shall meet annually, at 
such times and places, as provided for in the Discipline of the 
Evangelical Association of North America. 

Article V. — It shall be the duty of said Secretary to make a 
faithful record of the doings of said Conference, to be kept legibly 
in a book of reference. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer, if 
required by a vote of the Conference, to give a bond for the faith- 
ful performance of duty. He shall receive and hold all funds be- 
longing to said Conference, and hand them over, or pay them out 
as said Conference may direct, to the several departments thereof. 

Article VI. — The members of this association shall be the 
members in full connection in said Indiana Annual Conference of 
the Evangelical Association and their successors in the Confer- 
ence membership. 

Article VII. — The Conference aforesaid shall have power to 
ordain by-laws for their government, and change them at any 
meeting thereof, by a majority of the members present and voting. 
And this Constitution may be changed at any annual meeting 
thereof by a two-thirds vote of the membership present and voting. 

According to previous notice given, the following reverend 
gentlemen were elected by the Indiana Annual Conference at its 
annual session in East Germantown, Wayne Co., Indiana, Rev. G. 
G. Platz, Treasurer. 

It is hereby certified that the foregoing is a true account of 
proceedings in reference to the election on the day of the above 
date. Given under our hands in Conference room, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Joseph Long, President. 
Melchior Mayer, Secretary. 

The above is a verbatim copy of the original, copied January 
14, 1878, by D. S. Oakes, into our Indiana Conference Record 
Book. On the back of the original document is the following: 
"Received for Record, February 10th, 1863, at ten o'clock A. M.. 
and recorded in Mortgage Record, M. M., Page 206. A. G. Wal- 
lace." 

In 1894, Article III was revised to read as follows: The offi- 
cers of the Conference shall be a President, Vice-President, a Sec- 
retary, a Treasurer and a Board of Trustees, consisting of five 
members, who shall be charged with their respective duties by 
the Conference, usual to such office. The Bishop presiding over 
the Conference shall be President. The Vice-President and Treas- 
urer shall be elected annually by a majority of the members pres- 
ent and voting; the Secretary shall be the same elected according 

320 



BUSINESS RULES OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE 

to the Discipline and usage of the Evangelical Association as Sec- 
retary of the Conference. The Board of Trustees shall be elected 
for three years by a majority of the members present and voting. 
All of the aforesaid officers shall hold their office until their suc- 
cessors are chosen and qualified. 



Business Rules of the Indiana Conference. 

At the first session of the Conference, in 1853, Bishop J. 
Long, the Chairman, was appointed to draft a set of rules govern- 
ing the business proceedings and conduct of the Conference, 

The following rules were adopted : 

1. Each member of the Conference shall throughout the ses- 
sion retain the seat chosen at the beginning of the session. 

2. Any member desiring to speak shall arise, and if there be 
two or more arise at the same time, the Chair shall decide who 
shall have right to speak first. 

3. No one shall be interrupted in his remarks, except he de- 
viate from the subject under discussion, or is thought to be out 
of order, which the Chairman or Conference shall determine. 

4. All remarks concerning members of Conference shall be 
made in the spirit of brotherly love. 

5. It shall not be allowable, during sessions, to transact any 
side business. 

6. It shall not be allowed, for any member, to absent him- 
self from any session before adjournment, except he be excused. 

1859 
Two additional by-laws were adopted this year as follows: 

(a) That all resolutions must be brought in writing. 

(b) That no member of Conference shall use tobacco on the 
Conference floor. 

1862 
At the session held in Germantown, Sept., 1862, the Busi- 
ness Rules were ordered to be revised. The Committee on Revi- 
sion were M. Hoehn, A. B. Schafer and A. Nicolai. They brought 
a report the second day as follows, which has been adopted since 
at every succeeding annual session : 

1. Each member shall retain, throughout the session, the 
seat chosen at the beginning of the Conference. 

2. Any one desiring to speak shall arise and respectfully 
address the Chairman. Should two or more rise to speak the 

821 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

same time the Chair shall decide which one shall have the privi- 
lege of speaking. 

3. No one shall be interrupted in speaking except he deviate 
from the subject under consideration, or present something that 
is out of order, which must always be decided by the Chair, or by 
the Conference. 

4. All remarks and references to others shall be made in 
brotherly love. 

5. In Conference session each member shall avoid incidental 
or side business transaction. 

6. No one shall be allowed to withdraw before the regular 
close of the session without permission of Conference. 

7. All resolutions, so requested by the Chairman, Secretary 
or any two members of Conference, must be rendered in written 
form. 

8. Any minister who shall report, by writing or verbally, 
of the examinations of character, etc., shall, the next year, be de- 
nied the privilege of being present at the examination. 



Miscellaneous Rules and Regulations adopted by 
the Indiana Conference. 

UNRESCINDED AND IMPORTANT RULES 

A^These rules were adopted at the sessions indicated by year number. 

1861 — No local preacher shall be received from other Conferences 
unless he brings a certificate of standing from his Quar- 
terly or Annual Conference. And if any leave this Confer- 
ence they must go with a certificate. 

1863 — There shall be roll-call at the opening of each session; and 
if any one is absent, unless he can show satisfactory cause, 
he shall be reprimanded. 

1865 — Resolved, That each preacher lift an annual collection at all 
appointments for superannuated preachers, widows and 
orphans. 

1869 — Resolved, That a fine of $5.00 be imposed on all preachers 
hereafter, who neglect lifting a collection for superannuated 
preachers, widows and orphans. 

1879 — Whereas, Much labor and vexation having been caused the 
Missionary Society, Sunday-School and Tract Union Soci- 
ety and Finance Committee by brethren bringing their col- 
lections in small change, therefore Resolved, That it shall 

322 



UNRESCINDED AND IMPORTANT RULES 

not be allowed to bring- such moneys in smaller money than 
$1.00, excepting when there are fractional parts of a dollar 
in such aggregate collections. 

1886 — Resolved, That in the future at the examination of the 
moral and official conduct of preachers, it shall be asked if 
all the Conference collections have been lifted. 

Whereas, J. Berger, P. E., reported that local church 
trustees have rented their churches (doubtless for other 
purposes than the Discipline provides) without asking the 
sanction of the preacher-in-charge, or the Conference, 

Resolved, That such action is a violation of the civil 
and ecclesiastical laws, and requests such trustees to desist 
in such actions in the future. 

Resolved, That in the future all preachers shall buy 
and use the "Membership Book" prepared by the Publish- 
ing House. 

1890 — Resolved, That hereafter none of our preachers shall be 
allowed to go out of the town or city where Conference is 
held during the session to preach. 

1892 — Resolved, That we prohibit any of our ministers to under- 
take the building of a church until two-thirds, or at least 
nearly that amount is secured, before the enterprise is un- 
dertaken. 

1895 — Resolved, That no evangelist, whether of our own church 
or any other, be granted the permission to hold meetings 
in our churches without the consent of the Presiding Elder 
and the preacher-in-charge, and that said evangelists shall 
be requested to produce credentials of proper authority to 
said minister. 

1900 — Resolved, That no member of the Conference shall be per- 
mitted to preach in any sister church on Conference Sunday 
morning, as it is the duty of all to be present at the ordi- 
nation services throughout. 

1902 — Whereas, There are brethren who owe the Publishing 
House money by the transaction of business with the same, 
thus cutting down the dividends accruing from such busi- 
ness, that the Conference sorely needs to meet the claims 
of her claimants, and embarrasses both the Publishing 
House and the Conference, 

Resolved, That hereafter those who are at any Confer- 
ence session delinquent one hundred dollars ($100.00) or 
more and have not made satisfactory efforts to pay up, 
shall be openly reported. 

323 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1903 — Resolved, That when a succeeding minister finds instances 
of names of individuals given him by his predecessor, as 
members, who, on inquiry, cannot be found, or are reported 
by others as having long ago left the community, or that 
they have even been dead for quite a length of time, he 
shall write to his predecessor in reference thereto, and if 
such predecessor cannot, or will not, give satisfactory rea- 
sons or explanations for the retention of such names, the 
said minister shall report the case to the Presiding Elder 
of the said predecessor, who shall then, unless he can 
otherwise satisfactorily to all parties, adjust the matter, 
report the same to the Annual Conference. 

1907 — Resolved, That hereafter when there is a deficiency in the 
missionary treasury that the same be shared by all mem- 
bers of Conference. 

1910 — Resolved, That the traveling expenses of all the members 
of the Conference in active service, including those who are 
for one or two years retained in the itinerancy without an 
appointment, be equalized ; however, the preacher-in-charge, 
where the Conference session is being held, shall be ex- 
empted for that session. 

1914 — Whereas, The Sunday-schools in many of our societies have 
grown to such an extent that the election of officers by 
promiscuous ballot has become cumbersome; therefore be it 
Resolved, That wherever such conditions exist and cir- 
cumstances warrant that a nominating committee, consist- 
ing of five members, in addition to the pastor, be elected 
annually at the regular church business meeting or at an 
appointed meeting. 

That this committee shall meet annually some time 
previous to December 5th, at the call of the pastor, who 
shall be chairman, and nominate two persons for each of- 
fice to be filled, the same to meet with the approval of the 
pastor-in-charge, and that said committee cause such names 
to be properly printed on suitable ballots to be used at the 
annual election of Sunday-school officers. 

STATE LAWS GOVERNING TRUSTEE ELECTIONS 

Section 4742 Burns' Statutes, 1901, provides that the mem- 
bers of any church may, after giving ten days' notice by posting 
up written or printed notices in three public places in the vicinity 
of the place where such society worships, specifying the time and 
place of such election, elect not less than three nor more than nine 

324 



ACTIONS RELATIVE TO THE COLLEGE 

trustees. Section 5018 provides that this notice may be given by 
publication in some daily or weekly paper in the county in which 
the church is situated. 

Within ten days after said election there must be filed with 
the County Recorder a certificate setting forth the notice of such 
election, time, place, name of society, and the names of the per- 
sons elected as trustees. Sections 4743 and 5019. 

The same laws govern the election of parsonage trustees by a 
Quarterly Conference. 

All members of the church, regardless of sex or age, may 
vote, unless restricted by the rules of such church. 

These laws apply to churches, whether incorporated or not. 
In fact. Section 4743 implies that from the date of recording the 
certificate of election the trustees shall be deemed a body politic 
and corporate. However, to be a legally formed corporation, Sec- 
tion 4595n should be complied with. 



Actions of the Indiana Conference relative to N. 
W. C, Seminary, Endowment. 

ACTIONS OF THE INDIANA CONFERENCE RELATIVE TO THE COLLEGE 

That the Indiana Conference has not only been peculiarly fav- 
orable toward higher and Christian education, but has been vital- 
ly connected with fostering the same within our church, is evi- 
denced by her activities in the past. Nor has she in any way les- 
sened her labors along this worthy line, but in every advance she 
is to be found in the front ranks. The Indiana Conference has 
not always been able to see, as other Conferences have seen, and 
is still of the conviction that much would have been gained if her 
advice had been heeded in some particulars. 

The Illinois Conference sent as its representative J. J. Esher 
to solicit the Indiana Conference, at its session in September, 1859, 
relative to entering a college compact. This solicitation was kind- 
ly received, but for the present declined. In 1861, when the same 
Conference renewed their solicitation in the person of J. J. Esher 
and H. Roland, the Indiana Conference appointed a committee to 
formulate plans whereby we might unite with the Western Con- 
ferences in this worthy project. The committee, as appointed, 
was composed of G. G. Platz. M. W. Steffey, F. Fuchs, Fr. Wiet- 
haup and A. B. Schafer, who reported as favoring such a union, 

325 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

provided equal rights can be had with the other Conferences so 
concerned. 

In September, 1862, the entrance into the compact was fully 
effected when M. W. Steffey, Joseph Fisher and Carl Helwig, of 
Indianapolis, were chosen by the Conference as trustees of Plain- 
field College, and J. Fuchs as member of the Executive Committee. 

Year after year the Conference has been an enthusiastic sup- 
porter of the college, both by strong resolutions and financial sup- 
port. Nor has the Indiana Conference failed in sending her quota 
of men and women, and not a few of her present ministers have 
secured a liberal education within her walls. 

Relocation of the College. — The college which was located 
at Plainfield soon proved to be of great blessing to the church, 
and it was evident, also, that, if it was to be of the greatest value 
and usefulness, it must be removed to some town having railroad 
facilities. The college must be more accessible. September of 
1868 brought an unusual offer to the compact for purchasing a 
school in a new and desirable location. The trustees of the North- 
ern Indiana College of the Methodist Episcopal Church offered to 
sell us, as a Conference, their college, located at South Bend, In- 
diana, at the nominal sum of $6,000.00. A committee, composed 
of M. W. Steffey, M. Krueger and J. Kaufman, to negotiate in 
this matter and take it up with the other members of the compact, 
was appointed. The folloM'ing resolution was drawn up : "Re- 
solved, That we are grateful to receive such a liberal offering and 
do highly appreciate the same. However, since we, as a Confer- 
ence, are connected with the college at Plainfield, 111., and have 
our share of endowment to raise, we are unable, as a Conference, 
to purchase this Northern Indiana College, but we will instruct 
our college trustees to present the matter to the other Confer- 
ences in the compact, and should these Conferences concerned ex- 
press themselves as favoring the purchase, we will gladly accept 
the same." 

At the Conference session of 1869 it was reported that the 
college is to be relocated, either at Naperville, 111., where a pledge 
of $25,000.00 had been given and a plot of 4 acres of land, or at 
South Bend, where a school worth $40,000.00 and 71/2 acres of land 
could be purchased from the Methodists for $6,000.00. Both 
places had their promoters and supporters, and against what the 
Indiana Conference considered her better judgment, and the larger 
usefulness of the school. South Bend was rejected, with its most 
enticing offer. Had the college been located at South Bend, there 

326 



ACTIONS RELATIVE TO THE COLLEGE 

were good prospects of other Conferences entering- the compact, 
which would have greatly strengthened the school in every way. 

An extra session of the North-Western College Trustees was 
called, and at this session it was decided to move the college from 
Plainfield to Naperville, 111. The committee reported, in 1870, 
regarding these matters, as follows : "As is already known, the 
trustees of North-Western College, at an extra session, removed 
the college from Plainfield to Naperville, 111. Although South 
Bend was the place of our choice, believing that for the prosperity 
of the school it would have been greatly to be preferred, we will, 
nevertheless, submit to the will of the majority and pray God's 
blessing to rest upon the institution. As much as we regret that 
the excellent oflfer from South Bend was not accepted, we are, 
nevertheless, ready to wish prosperity to the school as before. The 
Indiana Conference replied : Resolved : 

1. We will aid our North- Western College agent, Wm, Huel- 
ster, in collecting the unpaid subscriptions. 

2. That our trustees represented us properly, inasmuch as 
they opposed Naperville as the location of North-Western College. 

3. We rejoice that the citizens of Naperville and the vicin- 
ity, together with our agent, are erecting the college building, and 
we hope that, since they achieved their end and have the college 
in their midst, they will now complete the building and nicely pay 
for the same ! 

4. That we in no way obligate ourselves for the payment of 
the debts that may be made in erecting the building. 

5. That, for the present, we do not think it expedient to 
proceed with the Theological Department. However, we rejoice 
that the college is in a prosperous condition, and that the Faculty 
is striving to meet the necessities of the institute. 

OUR RELATION TO THE UNION BIBLICAL INSTITUTE, NOW EVANGELICAL 
THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY 

The first that is mentioned concerning the work of the insti- 
tute occurs in 1870, when Rev. Wm. Huelster, agent of the college, 
was present and urged the establishing of a theological chair in 
the college. The Conference could not see its way clearly at this 
session, but in the year following expressed the desire that, if 
feasible, the General Conference should take steps in that direc- 
tion. Quite a number of men had attended North-Western College 
who were entering the ranks of the ministry, and it seemed but 
reasonable that opportunity should be given for theologic study. 

327 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

During this year the trustees of the college compact organized the 
Union Biblical Institute, which action was heartily endorsed and 
ratified by the Indiana Conference at its session in 1872. More- 
over, it was recommended that an endowTnent fund should be 
raised, and as soon as $15,000.00 was secured, the work shall pro- 
ceed. One year later found this Conference urging the immedi- 
ate beginning of the institute work, and the appointing of a pro- 
fessor, in order that our "young men may be the better trained to 
save men." 

With others, it was soon recognized that, in order to main- 
tain the institute, an additional endowment of $5,000.00 would be 
needed, and earnest assistance was given the institute treasurer 
in the raising of this amount. 

From the very first the Indiana Conference has been an ear- 
nest promoter and earnest supporter of the work of the insti- 
tute, and feels justly proud of the men in her ranks that have en- 
joyed the privileges of this blessed institution, and that, now, one 
of her own ministers. Rev. G. B. Kimmel, occupies one of the im- 
portant chairs in her Faculty. 

ENDOWMENT FUND FOR THE COLLEGE AND THE SEMINARY 

From the very founding of our higher schools of learning it 
was understood that such could not be maintained without an ade- 
quately large and permanent endowment fund, of w^hich the in- 
terest alone could be used. The Indiana Conference has always 
gladly borne her part of this work and raised her share of the ap- 
portionment, both for the college and the seminary. When the 
college was to be moved and put upon a larger and better basis, she 
advocated no less than a $100,000.00 endowment. When the in- 
stitute called for $20,000.00 as an endowment she was on hand 
to provide her share. 

In 1875 the following resolution was passed: "Whereas, It 
is recommended by our agent, Rev. Wm. Huelster, to make this 
year a jubilee year for the endowment fund of the college and 
institute, therefore be it Resolved, That every preacher shall, if 
possible, collect an average of $1.00 per member for said endow- 
ment fund." However, money proved to be very scarce during 
the year, and thereafter regular yearly offerings were taken in- 
stead of this spasmodic attempt. 

In 1895, J. H. Yaggy addressed the Conference in the inter- 
est of finances of the college and institute, and our preachers re- 
sponded with a subscription of $1,250.00. 

328 



ORPHAN HOME AND THE INDIANA CONFERENCE 

It became evident, owing- to the increase along eveij line of 
college and institute work, that a larger endowment was neces- 
sary to proceed in safety. Accordingly the General Conference, 
at its session in 1903, recommended to these institutions, in view 
of the need, to take active steps at once toward raising an endow- 
ment of $250,000.00. Our Indiana Conference placed herself in 
line with the other Conferences of the compact and assumed her 
share of the burden. The above sum was carefully apportioned 
by the trustees of the compact to the Conferences concerned, and 
it fell to our lot to raise $27,527.67. 

This amount, plus 4 per cent, interest on the amount unpaid, 
seemed like an unmovable and insurmountable mountain, but after 
it was assumed the Conference proceeded in her characteristic 
"hoosier" fashion to cheerfully raise the same. The Conference 
Branch Young People's Alliance took an active and aggressive part, 
and urged, in 1909, that an effort be made to raise the whole 
amount in four years. At the Conference of 1910 the entire sum 
unpaid was apportioned to the four presiding- elder districts and 
again apportioned to the various local societies. The Presiding 
Elders and pastors went at the task with enthusiasm and suc- 
ceeded in securing the entire amount without the aid of the college 
treasurer. Nearly the entire amount has been paid in, including 
the 4 per cent, interest. 

Aside from this effort, S. H, Baumgartner found a man, 
Charles Meuser, of Grand View, Indiana, who gladly gave $5,000.00 
on the annuity plan, which, in due time, will become an added part 
of the Endowment Fund. This good brother and his wife have 
set an example that will bear repetition. 



Orphans' Home. 

The Indiana Conference, active in every other line, was not to 
be found idle in the matter of the needy orphans. The Annual 
Conference sessions witnessed considerable agitation along this 
line, which finally took definite form at the session held in 1864. 
An organization was effected for this purpose, according to the 
method prescribed, namely, that any one paying a sum of $20.00 
or more shall be a member, and as soon as twenty are enrolled, 
ofTicers shall be elected and the society organized. 

At the session of 1865 five trustees were elected, whose duty 
it became to solicit funds for this purpose, and as soon as $20,000.00 
was secured, to establish an orphan home within the bounds of 

329 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

the Indiana Conference. This Board of Trustees was to be I(^•• 
garded as "The Orphans' Father," whose purpose it was to find 
suitable homes for destitute children. The Presiding Elders and 
the pastors were made special agents in the soliciting of funds 
and finding needy children and suitable private homes in which 
to place them. 

At a previous date an Orphan Home Society had been formed, 
which was allowed to lapse and subscriptions which had been taken 
for the same were not collected. The newly organized society 
requested that those subscriptions be transferred to the new Or- 
phan Home Society and be paid during the current year. The 
Chairman of the Board was also allowed the privilege of calling the 
Board together to transact business during the Conference year, 
and to repoit their minutes to the Conference. The Treasurer 
was instructed to invest the funds on hand, with good security, 
at a legal rate of interest. The Board was composed of M. W. 
Steffey, A. B. Schafer, J. Fuchs, C. Helwig and Carl Alday (the 
latter two being lay members). 

The work along this line began to lag a little until Rev. Zim- 
mer, of the Ohio Conference, presented himself as a delegate from 
the Ohio Conference at the session of 1866. He brought an appeal 
from his Conference for a union of the Ohio and Indiana Confer- 
ence in establishing an orphan home. Hereupon the Indiana Con- 
ference expressed the advisability of presenting the matter to Gen- 
eral Conference, and steps be taken toward establishing an or- 
phan home as an Evangelical Association, making the institution 
large and strong enough to provide educational instruction, as 
well as a home for the orphans. It was made plain, however, that 
in case General Conference takes no action in the matter, the Ohio 
Conference should again confer with the Indiana Conference. At 
the next session G. F. Spreng, of the Ohio Conference, was present 
and made an appeal for financial aid, asking the privilege to so- 
licit in the bounds of the Indiana Conference. As much as the 
Indiana Conference was in favor of orphan home work, such priv- 
ilege could not be granted at the time asked. 

In October of the same year, 1867, the General Conference 
took over the orphan home at Tiffin, Ohio, and made it a denom- 
inational institution. The following resolution was passed : "Re- 
solved, That we declare the Ohio Orphan Institution to be the in- 
stitution of the Evangelical Association of North America, and 
order that the Articles of Incorporation and the Constitution be 
changed accordingly." 

330 



CHURCH EXTENSION 

The Indiana Conference rejoiced at this action, which was 
of her own suggestion, and in the year 1868 transferred her 
orphan home treasury to the Orphan Home of the Evangelical 
Association, located at Tiffin, Ohio. 



Church Extension. 

Recognizing the value and imperative need of some fund that 
would assist mission churches in the construction of suitable 
buildings by the loaning of money at a very low rate of interest, 
a church building fund was started at the session in 1892, when 
Sister Hannah Link, of Bremen, Indiana, gave $1,000.00 for this 
noble purpose. The following resolution was adopted upon the 
receipt of this gift: Resolved, That for a period of five years 20 
per cent, of all money collected within the bounds of the Indiana 
Conference for any church or parsonage, either by authorized 
or unauthorized collectors, other than on the charge, building 
such a church or parsonage, shall flow into this church building 
fund. 

At the General Conference, held in 1903, a Church Extension 
Society was created, and all the Conferences ratified this sane ac- 
tion. This society called for seven trustees in each Conference, 
the Presiding Elders, by virtue of their oflfice, and others elected 
to fill out the full number of seven. The Presiding Elders auto- 
matically become members of this Board, and the other members 
are elected for a term of five years. Those who have served as 
members of this Board from the Indiana Conference are : 

1906— S. H. Baumgartner, D. Martz, C. F. Hansing, D. D. Spei- 
cher (P. E.'s), L. Newman, G. B. Kimmel, J. H. Rilling. 

1907 — L. S. Fisher and J. 0. Hosier automatically became mem- 
bers by being elected Presiding Elder in the place of S. H. 
Baumgartner and C. F. Hansing. 

1908 — J. J. Wise, as Presiding Elder, became a member in D. 
Martz's place. 

1909 — S. H. Baumgartner, as Presiding Elder, became a member 
in place of D. D. Speicher. 

1911 — J. W. Metzner, as Presiding Elder, in the place of J. O. 
Hosier and L. S. Fisher, G. B. Kimmel, J. H. Rilling and 
L. Newman were re-elected. L. S. Fisher was newly elected. 

331 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

In 1909 the Conference Board of Church Extension made the 
following report : 

Whereas, The General Conference has urged all the Confer- 
ences having separate Church Extension funds to merge the same 
into the fund of the General Board of Church Extension ; and, 
Whereas, A strenuous effort is being made to raise this general 
fund to $100,000, therefore be it 

Resolved, We recommend that all the moneys of our Confer- 
ence Church Extension Fund be transferred to the General 
Board of Church Extension of our church, to become the prop- 
erty of, and to be administered by said Board. It shall be known 
as the Indiana Conference Fund, to be used for church extension 
purposes within the bounds of our own Conference only, at one 
per cent, rate of interest. 

For donations to this fund see "Donations," page 343. 



Camp-meeting and Oakwood Park, 

In 1881 a committee, composed of three members from each 
Presiding Elder district, was named to see after a Conference 
camp-meeting, but for some reason the camp-meeting failed to 
appear. In 1889 a committee of five, consisting of D. S. Oakes, 
H, Arlen, Aug. Geist, J. Whales and G. B. Holdeman, was ap- 
pointed to secure a camp-meeting outfit. A stock company was 
formed by a number of brethren, who purchased a tabernacle, 
tents, seats, etc., at a cost of $1,000. This outfit was used for a 
time and then donated to Conference. In '92 a committee, com- 
posed of the Presiding Elders, D. S. Oakes, H. Arlen, D. Martz, 
was appointed to consider the advisability of purchasing a perma- 
nent camp-ground, and to hunt a suitable site for the same, and 
report to next Conference. The succeeding Conference is found 
instructing this committee to take immediate steps toward pur- 
chasing a permanent camp-ground on the west shore of Lake 
Wawassee, near Syracuse, Ind. In '94 a stock company was 
formed for the purpose of taking charge of the camp-meeting 
park, now called Oakwood Park. Efforts were made to sell 100 
shares to the preachers of the Indiana Conference, the Presiding 
Elders being the general agents for the Conference park, and were 
to secure stockholders upon their various districts. Should the 
stock company fail to materialize by Oct. 1, '84, the Conference 
trustees were authorized to provide for the meeting of the obli- 

332 



CONFERENCE BRANCH YOUNG PEOPLE'S ALLIANCE 

g-ation, and should the Conklin Hill Park Co. become an incor- 
porate reality, the trustees shall make the necessary transfer. 

In '98, the Conference Branch Young People's Alliance, through 
its President, Rev. H. Steininger, proposed the camp-meeting 
tabernacle enterprise to the Conference. The offer of the young 
people was gladly accepted, D. D. Spangler drafted an excellent 
plan for a tabernacle, 60 ft. by 90 ft., and the ministers of the 
Conference, headed by a few experienced carpenters, proceeded to 
construct it. It was a marvel in the eyes of every one, especially 
because it was built by preachers! The year after its building, 
under the presidency of S. H. Baumgartner, a floor was put in, to 
make it even more serviceable. This tabernacle rendered excellent 
service until its destruction by fire in 1914. Immediately a new 
auditorium was built. The ministers once more showed their skill 
and gave to the Conference a handsome, octagon-shaped audi- 
torium. The lay brethren rendered splendid aid in this task, 
while the willing wives of the preachers prepared the meals. The 
trustees of the Conference managed the entire affair. 



Conference Branch Y. P. A. 

Active steps were taken in 1892 to organize a Conference 
Branch Young People's Alliance. The prime movers of such an 
organization were the Young People's Alliance members of Watch- 
tower Church of Elkhart, Indiana, who, by special letter, peti- 
tioned Conference at this session to organize a Conference Branch 
Alliance, and to co-operate with them in convention work. At 
this time there were three Young People's Alliances, one at Watch- 
tower, Elkhart; Dayton, Commercial St., and Rochester. The first 
convention prior to the Conference Branch organization was held 
in our Rochester Church, of which S. H. Baumgartner was then 
pastor. The Conference resolved at this session to grant the re- 
quest of the aforesaid petitioners, and elected the following com- 
mittee on organization: M. L. Scheidler, F. E. Zechiel, W. H. My- 
grant, W. H. Brightm_ire and Geo. Roederer. The aim of this or- 
ganization, as expressed by Conference, was "to teach practical 
religion and the fundamental truths of the Bible." The above 
committee met at New Paris, Ind., at this session, and organized 
as follows : Geo. Roederer, Pres. ; W. H. Brightmire, Vice-Pres. ; 
F. E. Zechiel, Cor. Sec; M. L. Scheidler, Rec. Sec, and W. H. 
Mygrant, Treas. By the solicitation of the committee the different 
local Young People's Alliances of the Indiana Conference sent 

333 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

delegates to Urbana, where they were organized into a Conference 
Branch Young People's Alliance, 

In 1898 the Branch Alliance gave proof of its value when it 
undertook the building of the tabernacle (see article on Camp- 
Ground), and completed the project most commendably. At the 
session of '99 the following resolution was adopted : "In view of 
the fact that the Conference Branch Young People's Alliance has, 
during the past year, erected a beautiful tabernacle at Oakwood 
Park, therefore be it Resolved, That the Branch Young People's 
Alliance be released this year from paying the required two-thirds 
of their money." One-third of all money collected flowed into the 
Conference building fund, and one-third into the Conference 
treasury. 

The Branch Alliance has also been exceedingly busy in pro- 
moting missionary and educational causes. Besides supporting 
C. E. Ranck, missionary to China, and giving generously toward 
the Indiana Conference Missionary Society, she has also helped in 
the launching of several new missions, and gave them a proper 
beginning. In 1902 the Conference Branch Young People's Alli- 
ance president informed Conference that the Conference Branch 
Young People's Alliance desires to support, for three successive 
years, a new mission in the Conference. The matter was referred 
to the Committee on Boundaries. Kokomo city was then reported 
by this committee as the desired place to establish the Young 
People's Alliance mission, and A. S. Fisher became the first mis- 
sionary. (Previous to this tim-e, in the summer of 1890, S. H. 
Baumgartner preached in this city in an Independent church, but 
from lack of encouragement on the part of the Presiding Elder the 
work was dropped. The United Brethren then took up the work in 
this same church, and, later, bought it and organized a society 
which flourished. We might have had the field then if faith had 
been stronger. Past failures at other places had much to do with 
quitting here at this time, fearing another "everlasting mission.") 

Since then a number of other missions have been greatly 
helped, chief among which were Ft. Wayne, Crescent Ave., Terre 
Haute, and Evansville, new mission. 



District Meetings. 

In 1859 meetings of the preachers on each Presiding Elder 
district were ordered to be held, and in 18G4 a motion was sup- 
ported, to hold any minister who failed to attend, should give ac- 

334 



CONFERENCE COMMITTEES 

count thereof at the next annual session of the Conference. The 
traveling expenses to and from the district meeting could be col- 
lected from the various fields of labor. 

In 1866 the following Business Rules governing district meet- 
ings were adopted by the Annual Conference: 

1. The Presiding Elder shall be chairman. In his absence 
one shall be elected. 

2. The session shall each time be opened with Scripture 
reading, song and prayer, and close with prayer. The chairman 
can appoint others for this service. 

3. Each minister shall read a written treatise on a given sub- 
ject, which shall then be openly discussed in reference to thought 
and language. 

4. The preachers shall collect themes during the year and 
bring them to Conference, to be distributed by a committee to the 
preachers of the districts. 

5. Each district meeting shall adopt its own by-laws as oc- 
casion requires. 

6. There shall be preaching each evening during the meeting. 

7. At the close of each district meeting, time and place for 
the next one shall be fixed. 

In 1882 the resolution, making it obligatory to attend the 
district meetings, was rescinded ; however, attendance at the dis- 
trict meetings usually has been unanimous wherever they have 
been held. 



Conference Committees. 

There are a number of standing committees that do the most of 
the preliminary work of the Conference session, eliminating much 
needless discussion by bringing matters of importance before the 
Conference in proper shape, so that discussion can be intelligent, 
and adoption or rejection be made with despatch. The standing 
committees are : On Worship ; On Letters and Documents ; On 
Boundaries ; On Appropriations ; On Episcopal Fund and Appor- 
tionment; On Conference Records; On Statistics; On Ways and 
Means ; On Finance ; On Education ; On Temperance and Sab- 
bath; On Catechetical Instruction, Sunday-School and Young Peo- 
ple's Alliance; On Resolutions; On Conference Relations; On 
Memorials. 

335 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

PERMANENT MEMORIAL COMMITTEE 

A permanent Memorial Committee, composed of J. H. Evans, 
Chairman; B. Schueimeier, Vice-Chairman, and E. W. Praetorius, 
Secretary, was appointed at the session in 1909. The duty of 
this committee shall be to gather material concerning those who 
have died during the year, such as would be of value to the Com- 
mittee on Memorials, and present same for use to the committee 
that is appointed at each session. 

In 1905 a Memorial Department was ordered to be established 
in our Conference Journal, giving, first, the name of deceased 
ministers ; second, date of birth ; third, date of entrance into the 
ministry ; fourth, date of death and where buried. D. S. Oakes 
was appointed to be the compiler. This list appeared in the Jour- 
nal of 1906. 

HISTORICAL COMMITTEES 

First Historical Committee : S. Dickover, G. G. Platz and 
Chr. Glaus, was appointed, in 1855, to gather material for the 
History of the Evangelical Association, which was to be published 
by W. W. Orwig. 

In 1893, D. S. Oakes was appointed to write a historical 
sketch of the origin and development of the Indiana Conference, 
and that the same be published annually in the Conference Jour- 
nal in a period of ten years. 

In 1914 the Conference passed the following resolution: 

Whereas, The time has come to conserve the valuable data of 
the history of the Indiana Conference, and. Whereas, It would 
prove of great value to have a continued history of the Indiana 
Conference from its inception up to the present time, and that 
such a history may be in a substantial and portable form. 

We recommend therefore : 

1. That the Presiding Elders constitute a committee to se- 
cure and publish such a history, S. H. Baumgartner, the Confer- 
ence historian, to serve as chairman. 

2. That no less than one thousand copies — the number of 
pages left to the discretion of the committee — be published and 
sold for not less than 50 cents per copy. 

In 1915 a special Committee on Conference History was ap- 
pointed to inspect materials presented by S. H. Baumgartner. 
This committee, composed of J. O. Mosier, Chairman, G. B. Kim- 
mel, E. W. Praetorius, G. W. Frederick and Wm. Mertz, submit- 
ted the following report, which was adopted: 

336 



THE HISTORY OF THE PREACHERS' SALARIES 

1. That 1,000 copies of the history be pubhshed, bound in 
cloth, and sold at a price of no less than 50 cents nor more than 
75 cents per copy. 

2. That E. W, Praetorius shall be appointed as editor and 
publisher of the same. 

3. That each preacher shall be responsible for the sale of one 
book for every 25 members of his congregation. 



Preachers' Salaries in Evolution. 

THE HISTORY OF THE PREACHERS' SALARIES 

In 1852 the financial support for the year per single man was 
$73.92, and reasonable traveling expenses. D. S. Oakes, our first 
historian, stated the salary rule in vogue from the beginning as 
follows: "That all preachers received equal salaries, according to 
months, regulated as follows : Unmarried men, and those not or- 
dained deacons, if married, were allowed twelve months, while 
ordained married men counted twelve months additional for their 
wives, and three months for each child under 14 years old. All 
had to report their months, and the amount of quarterage re- 
ceived, to the Finance Committee. This committee then ascer- 
tained the aggregate number of months, as also the total quarterage 
paid, from which an average to the month was ascertained, and 
each man received pro rata according to the number of months to 
Avhich he was entitled. It followed that those who received above 
the average had to disburse the excess to help make up the deficit 
of those who fell below. Each had also to report his itemized 
traveling expenses, and if the committee deemed any item not 
just, it was reported to the Conference. After these expenses 
were granted as reasonable, each man's was deducted from his 
quarterage receipts before the dividend was struck." Average 
salary, 1853, $87.24. 1854. All ministers who had to move could 
collect the amount of moving expenses over $8.00, when allowed, 
after submission to the Quarterly Conference for investigation. 
1855, $76.68 ; 1856, $73.56. Ministers who traveled to Conference 
and back by railroad had to pay, from now on, the excess of 
cost per horse and buggy. 1857, $75.48 ; 1858, $84.84. The Pre- 
siding Elders from now on were allowed house rent on their dis- 
tricts, provided they presented their claim to their Quarterly Con- 
ferences for allowance or rejection of the claim. 1859, $83.76; 
1860, $92.40. In 1861 the Conference made a new basis. The 

387 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Presiding Elders and preachers-in-charge on circuits, besides sal- 
ary and reasonable traveling expenses, were now allowed moving 
and rent expenses, but had to collect it from their respective fields. 
Salaries on circuits M^ere, from now on, independent of each other, 
so that each circuit preacher could keep the amount paid, in ex- 
cess of his fixed salary, instead of distributing it to those who fell 
short. And missionaries were allowed for their salary the average 
between the highest and lowest salary receipts on circuits, plus 
reasonable traveling expenses, and moving and house rent ex- 
penses, provided these expenses were collected on their respective 
fields. 

In 1862 the salary ranged from $90 to $100; in 1864 from 
$101 to $125. Ministers on circuits and country missions had now 
their salaries increased from 10 to 15 per cent, for living ex- 
penses, and the Presiding Elders and station pastors were put on 
an equality for living expenses. In 1865 living expenses of preach- 
ers were increased 10 per cent. Salary in 1866, $118 to $125; 
1867, $110 to $125; 1868, $150-36; 1869, $188.88. At this ses- 
sion the plan of independent salary was redeclared as in full vogue, 
and the salary was now fixed on each field for the year, and the 
missionaries, from now on, could keep the surplus salary receipts. 

THE SALARY STANDARD OF 1882 

1. A preacher on probation, married or unmarried, shall be 
allowed no less than $200. 

2. An ordained preacher, if married, shall be allowed no 
less than $400 for himself and wife, and $33 1,;; for each child un- 
der 15 years. If single, his allowance shall be no less than $300. 

3. Pastors of city stations and missions shall be allowed 
20 per cent., and Presiding Elders 30 per cent, additional to the 
above. 

4. Each minister shall be entitled, additionally, to the neces- 
sary traveling expenses and to rent where there are no parsonages. 

THIS BASIS OF SALARY WAS ADOPTED 1896 

In the beginning of the Conference year the preacher-in- 
charge shall announce a meeting of the official members of the 
charge, of which he is to be chairman, who shall fix the preach- 
er's salary and provide to raise it. The salary shall not be less 
than the following sums : 

On circuits, married elders, $475, and married deacons. $425. 
On city charges, married elders, $525, and married deacons, $475. 

338 



THE HISTORY OF THE PREACHERS' SALARIES 

Probationers on circuits, married, $375, and single probationers, 
$250. 

Probationers on city charges, married, $400, and single proba- 
tioners, $300. 

The Presiding Elder's salary shall not be less than $600. The 
above amount shall not include house rent or traveling expenses, 
which shall be added. 

A NEW STANDARD OF SALARY ADOPTED APRIL, 1903 

The new standard was prefaced by reasons as follows : The 
times demand a better prepared ministry, requiring years of 
study; the increased cost of living; the inadequacy of the stand- 
ard of salary set by the Conference, and the greatly improved 
condition of the laity. 

Therefore Resolved, That, exclusive of traveling expenses and 
rent, the following shall be the minimum of salaries in our Con- 
ference : Single probationers, $300 ; married probationers, $375 ; 
deacons on circuits, $425; deacons on city charges, $500; elders 
on circuits, $550; elders on city charges, $600; Presiding Elder's 
salary shall not be less than $900, including traveling expenses 
and rent. 

Resolved, further, That at the beginning of the Conference 
year, as soon as the preacher's claim has been presented and ac- 
cepted, the class-leaders and exhorters shall assist the stewards in 
each society in apportioning the claim among the members, to in- 
form each one of the amount, and to request payment in quarterly 
installments in sufficient time before each Quarterly Conference. 

This resolution did not apply to city charges that had an ade- 
quate financial system. 

A NEW STANDARD ADOPTED APRIL, 1908 

The General Conference, held October, 1907, expressed the be- 
lief of a shortage of efficient ministers in the church, to be at- 
tributable, in part, to an inadequate financial support of the min- 
instry and increased cost of living from 20 to 40 per cent. Be- 
cause of this fact the Indiana Conference, in April, 1908, made 
an appeal to the Conference constituency for better support ac- 
cording to the following minimum standard (see page 107, Con- 
ference Journal, 1908) : 

Single probationers, $450; married, $450, and rent; deacons 
on circuits, $500, and house rent; in cities, $550, and house rent; 
elders on circuits, $600, and house rent; in city missions, $650, 
and rent; on city stations, $700, and rent; Presiding Elders, 

339 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

$1,000, and rent. Moving expenses of all to be paid by fields and 
districts to which a minister is appointed. By this standard all 
former ones were rescinded. 

AN ADDITIONAL PRESIDING ELDER STANDARD ADOPTED, 1911 

Whereas, The office of Presiding Elder is one of high dig- 
nity and great responsibility, requiring ability of no ordinary de- 
gree ; and, Whereas, In the absence of any fixed amount of com- 
pensation the pay received in the past by these officers of our Con- 
ference has not been in keeping with the importance and dignity 
of the office ; therefore be it 

Resolved, That this Conference fix the amount to be paid the 
Presiding Elder by each district, and that these amounts be pro- 
rated or apportioned among the appointments on the districts. 

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PRESIDING ELDERS' CLAIMS 

The Committee on Apportionment of Presiding Elders' Sal- 
aries for the coming year would report as follows : 

Resolved, First, That each field of labor, with but very few 
exceptions, raise the same amount of money for the Presiding 
Elders as last year. 

Resolved, further, That it shall be the duty of every preacher 
on the first Sunday he is on his field of labor to clearly explain 
to his people and his official board at each appointment the pur- 
pose and spirit of the reduced number of Presiding Elder districts. 

Resolved, finally, That the Presiding Elder ask each preacher- 
in-charge at the first Quarterly Conference whether the above in- 
struction has been complied with. 



Donations and Bequests to the Indiana Conference 
and Institutions of the Church. 

The members of the fields of labor of the Indiana Conference, 
blessed with this world's goods, believe in "honoring the Lord with 
their substance," and remember the various institutions of the 
Conference and the church. It is only to be regretted that not 
more of our people have received a like vision, but it is to be 
hoped that in the near future a goodly number of loyal Evangeli- 
cals will join this blessed company of royal givers! 

Many gifts have been made during the years that cannot be 
put into statistics because of their nature, but which have, never- 
theless, been of untold blessing. One example of this soit of giv- 

340 



DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS 

ing may be mentioned as an example of others : George Wise, Sr. 
(father of J. J. and D. O. Wise, ministers of our Conference), 
boarded and roomed three young, unmarried preachers in his own 
home, a year each, gratis, while they were serving the charge, of 
which he was a member. This was a great help and encourage- 
ment to these young men and to the Conference. 

The following are the donations and gifts, so far as can be 
ascertained, which were made year by year : 

1857 — Peter Burgener gave two lots, one in Olney, 111., and the 
other in Evansville, Ind., to the Conference Missionary So- 
ciety. 

1858 — John Kerstetter gave the Conference Missionary Society 
$400.00 to establish a permanent missionary fund, on con- 
dition that the Conference arrange to pay $600.00 on the 
church at South Bend. The Conference members responded 
at once with $220.00 toward the $600.00. When the preach- 
ers did so nobly the laity could not be idle. 

1863— David Carl bequeathed $100.00 to the Conference. 

1868 — Emanuel Niederhauser, of Linn Grove, gave $50.00 to the 
Indiana Conference Treasury. 

1871— About this year. Rev. G. Kloepfer willed $600.00 to the 
General Missionary Society of the church, but later paid it 
before his death as an example and incentive to others. 

1872 — Elizabeth Hartung, member of Elkhart society, willed her 
estate to the Indiana Conference. The same was applied 
on the indebtedness of the Elkhart, Division Street Church, 
with the provision that half that am.ount shall, without in- 
terest, be applied to the building of an English church 
in its proper time. 

1886 — Father Henry Klein gave $300.00 to the Indiana Confer- 
ence. 

1892— Hannah Link, of Bremen, Ind., donated $1,000.00 to the 
Conference, to be used as a basis of a permanent church 
building fund. 

1895 — By request of Conference, Mrs. Mary Porr, widow of Rev. 
P. Porr, deeded her property in Dayton to the Indiana Con- 
ference, with the provision that she retain a life lease on 
the same, and that the Conference keep the property in re- 
pair and pay the taxes thereon. At her death, in 1912, 
the property was sold for $1,300.00, and the proceeds flowed 
into the Conference Treasury. 

341 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1897 — Rev. F. Wiethaup, being without any direct heir, willed his 
possessions to the church as follows : $600.00 to the Gen- 
eral Missionary Society, $100.00 to benevolences, $100.00 
toward the new church in Huntingburg. The remainder 
— after all necessary expenses were paid — was to be given 
to mission work in Germany and Japan. 

1900— Sister Fredericke Wolf, of Marshall, 111., bequeathed $200.00 
to the Conference, of which $100.00 was returned to the 
local society in Marshall for the repair of the church. 

1902 — John Voltz, of Arlen Co., Ind., bequeathed toward the In- 
diana Conference debt fund $100.00. 

1905— The Spangler heirs of Bunker Hill, Ind., donated $100.00 
to the Conference, to constitute a permanent fund for su- 
perannuated preachers, widows and orphans. 

1907— Aug. Werner, of Medaryville, Ind., bequeathed $400.00 to 
the Indiana Conference Missionary Society. Mrs. Anna 
Mertz, of Vera Cruz, $50.00, and of Noah Barnheisel from 
Akron, $25.00 was received. Mrs. Geo. Smith, of Salem, 
Elkhart, $100.00 was received in memory of her son, Clin- 
ton. Mrs, Verena, of Vera Cruz, Ind., gave $25.00. All 
these gifts went to the permanent missionary fund of the 
Conference. 

1908 — Anna Rohrer Schamory, of Elkhart, Ind., willed the In- 
diana Conference $150.00, with other bequests to general 
benevolences of our church. Philip Hertel and wife, of 
Van Wert, 0., bequeathed $100.00 to the Indiana Conference 
church building fund. Mrs. Charles Conrad, of Bunker 
Hill Circuit, $25.00 to the charitable fund of the Indiana 
Conference, and $25.00 to the permanent fund of the In- 
diana Conference Missionary Society. Mrs. Mary Holde- 
man, of Elkhart, Ind., $125.00 for the Indiana Conference 
permanent missionary fund. 

1909— Sister Mary Crowder, of Bunker Hill, gave $25.00 for the 
charitable fund of the Conference. S. L, Smith, of Akron, 
Ind., and John Trachsel, of La Gro, Ind., each gave $25.00 
for the Conference student aid fund. Geo. W. Green and 
his wife, Julia J., of near Winnamac, Ind., deeded their 
farm of 80 acres, and donated $2,100.00 in cash to the 
Board of Trustees of the Indiana Conference on the annu- 
ity plan, with the provision that they have the proceeds 
of the farm and the interest on the money during their nat- 
ural life. After this a proper division is to be made. They 

342 



DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS 

also donated in the form of an annuity $1,000.00 to the 
North-Western College Endowment Fund in about 1906. 
1910 — Peter Wiest, of Bremen, Ind., provided in his last will and 
testament that, at the death of his wife, Rachel Wiest, the 
Indiana Conference should receive $1,500.00 for the promo- 
tion of Christ's cause within her borders, and the Mission- 
ary Society of the Switzerland Conference should receive 
$500.00. That $600.00 of the donation to the Indiana Con- 
ference shall be placed in the permanent missionary fund 
of the Conference, to be known as the Peter Wiest memorial 
fund. The remaining $900.00 shall flow into the Confer- 
ence Treasury. Geo. Gottschalk, of Linn Grove charge, be- 
queathed $100.00 for missionary purposes. This sum, by 
the special desire of the wife of the deceased, was appro- 
priated to the Crescent Avenue Mission Church of Ft. 
Wayne, Ind. A good brother on Celina charge appropriated 
$71.00 of his tithe money for the purchase of a church lot 
in Celina, Ohio. This was a good beginning of a prosper- 
ous mission, now in this city. 

1911 — Through the efl'orts of S. H. Baumgartner, Brother Charles 
Meuser, of Grand View, Spencer Co., Ind., gave a donation of 
$5,000.00 on the annuity plan to the Endowment Fund of 
North-Western College, which sum is to be credited to the In- 
diana Conference over the regular amount assumed. At the 
same time, on the same plan, he donated $5,000.00 to the Or- 
phan Home of the Evangelical Association at Flat Rock, 0. 
The Conference expressed her highest appreciation to this 
brother for his very generous gifts to these institutions. 

The following gifts were given to the Church Extension 
Society: Charles Hartman, $1,000; Katherin Hettler, $2,500; 
from Indiana Conference church fund, $1,247.91 ; Indiana Con- 
ference Branch Young People's Alliance, $765 ; John Koch and 
wife, $1,000; Andrew Kramer, $1,000; Andrew Kramer fund, 
$2,000; J. A. Oneth, $100; D. L. Speicher, $100; Mr. and Mrs. 
Shoenherr, $2,000; Mr. and Mrs. D. E. Speicher, $100; the S. S. 
Speicher heirs, $255.35 ; A. D. Kroft, $100. 

The following gifts were given to the SUPERANNUATION FUND : 
Andrew Kramer, $1,000; G. W. Frederick, $500; E. F. Kimmel, 
$500; Katherin Hettler, $500; D. L. Speicher, $500; Chas. Hart- 
man, $500; A Friend of Indianapolis, $500; John Koch, $500; 
Geo. Schafer, $125; F. H. Hirsch, $100; W. L. Miller, $100; W. G. 
Schaefer, $100; Harry Krause, $100; J. E. Meyer, $55; E. M. Ray, 

343 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

$50; Wm. Mertz, $50; W. L. Easterday, $50; W. H. Ecki, $50; 
A Friend, $50; Frank Krause, $50; A Friend, $30; Winey Bros., 
$100 ; P. Moore, $25 ; C. W. Grau, $50 ; Geo. Wise, Sr., $25 ; W. W. 
McCurtin, $25; Incognito, $25; J. W. Bucks, $25; Franklin Ott, 
$25 ; Dr. Carl Winsch, $25 ; Geo. Schafer, $25 ; Geo. Wise, Jr., $10 ; 
Henry Schlerb, $10; Conrad Meyer, $10; Eliz. Barnheisel, $10; 
Mrs. L. Cook, $10; Ray Bowen, $10; Ira Faulkner, $10; Geo. 
Zechiel, $10; Mrs. R. Hawk, $10; H. Schuermeier, $7; Fred 
Schmoe, $5 ; A Friend, $5 ; J. F. Ude, $5 ; Lillian Graf, $5 ; C. W. 
Zehner, $5; Mrs. C. Kalwitz, $5; Incognito, $5; Phil. Moore, $5; 
Mrs. A. Schoenherr, $2; Chr. Bandow, $2; Gust. Kalwitz, $3; 
Fred Guse, $1 ; A Friend, $5 ; Alva May, $5 ; J. H. Evans, in honor 
of his foster parents, $100 ; C. W. Zehner, $100 ; Noah C. Lehman, 
$100; Chas. Rhoade, $100; F. C. Laudeman and Wife, $100; W. 
Iwan, $100; Lewis Cauffman, $50; Mrs. Mary Hirschman, $500; 
Henry Schlosser, $500; John C. Soltau, $100; A Friend, $10; J. 
W. Null, $25; Mrs. L. Parker, $5; Rev. W. H. Mygrant, $5; Elva 
Lander, $2 ; G. F. Bandtel, $20 ; A Friend, $50. 

It is to be greatly desired that these noble and gracious gifts 
will be a stimulus to others. The benevolences should be remem- 
bered by repeated givings, and in the last will and testament. 
One's life can be made to speak even though the mortal body 
has been laid to rest, and the generations to come will arise and 
call "blessed." 



Interesting Miscellany. 

That strange things, and, sometimes, queer and even unjust 
happenings, occurred during these many years, is only to be ex- 
pected. A few of these items are here inserted. In 1856 the Pre- 
siding Bishop arrived at the Conference session one whole day 
late. The Conference had been duly opened, but, upon his ar- 
rival, it was voted that he, the Bishop, should preside during the 
remainder of the session ! It was his right, by virtue of his office, 
to do so without any such action. At the same session it was de- 
cided that each preacher going to and returning from the Con- 
ference session via the railroad must bear all his own expense 
in excess of what it would have cost him had he gone per horse 
and buggy! In '67 a great improvement was made in the matter 
of lodging at Conference sessions. Hitherto it had been the rule 
that every preacher attending the session change the place of his 
lodgings daily, but at this session it was decided that there would 

344 



INTERESTING MISCELLANY 

be a change only every other day. It saved the transfer of the 
luggage so often! In '98, when a Presiding Elder was to be 
elected to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of a certain 
Presiding Elder, it was decided to elect one to fill out the unex- 
pired term only. General Conference, however, decided this ac- 
tion to be irregular, and the newly elected elder held his office for 
the full four years. In '57 each missionary was instructed and re- 
quired to pay 6 per cent, interest on the missionary money he re- 
ceived in excess of $25. In '97, when the full appropriation failed to 
appear, each missionary was paid but 90 per cent, of his appro- 
priation. This was not only unjust, but exceeding^ oppressive 
to those receiving large appropriations. Some voted very heartily 
for this unjust measure, but at the next session, after they had 
served a year on a mission field, they lost all faith in such actions ! 
A far better and more brotherly resolution was adopted in 1907, 
when it was resolved that, in case there be a deficit in the mis- 
sionary treasury, all the members of the Conference shall equally 
share the same. Since then the missionaries have received their 
full appropriations. 

Flood experiences at two sessions were not so pleasant. In 
1866 and in 1913 two notable floods harassed the territory of the 
Conference, causing great loss. Concerning the one in '66, D. S. 
Oakes writes : "This was a very rainy season, resulting in high 
water. When nearly the entire Indiana Conference arrived at 
Terre Haute, on their way home from the session just held at 
Evansville, Ind., they met with a great number of preachers of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, who were likewise returning 
from their session. The depot was thronged with preachers, and 
it would surely have been a lively religious time had not distressing 
news of floods and impassable bridges reached them. Presently 
the word was brought that the railroad bridge between Terre 
Haute and Indianapolis — the very way that most of the ministers 
were going — was impassable. A panic almost ensued." A few of 
the brethren hastily boarded a train going west, and in a very 
round-about way finally reached home. The great majority had 
to spend nearly a week before they reached home. In 1913 a deep 
depression rested upon the Conference session, caused by the ter- 
rible and disastrous flood reaching over Indiana and Ohio, which 
caused the destruction of property amounting to millions of dol- 
lars, and many deaths in some cities. Many of our own people 
in Dayton, 0., Ft. Wayne, Peru and Logansport sustained great 
loss, and considerable damage was done to their churches. How- 
ever, none of our members lost their lives, for which all were 

345 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

devoutly thankful, though some had very narrow escapes. A num- 
ber of the ministers had a hard and perilous time to get to In- 
dianapolis, the place of Conference session. Some arrived quite 
late. One did not get to come at all, due to the flood robbing him 
of his necessary apparel. These facts brought a depression upon 
all that could not be shaken off, and which had a visible etfect 
upon the session of the Conference. Action was taken by the 
Conference to look after the interests of our flood sufferers in a 
financial way. The people of other congregations who escaped 
the flood at once liberally responded to appeals for aid, one so- 
ciety giving $1,000.00, and the committees appointed to make the 
distribution of the flood fund nobly discharged their duties with 
fairness to all concerned. The suffering congregations gratefully 
received this help from their church friends. 

Once in a while reprimands were delivered to delinquent 
brethren. In '60 one brother had to hear of it that he left his 
field during the year without a valid reason. In '66 another was 
severely censured because he broke an engagement vow, and, there- 
fore, had his ordination as deacon deferred. A third had charges 
preferred against him in '73 because he consulted a fortune-teller. 
He humbly sought forgiveness for his gross error and was re- 
tained. A fourth was brought to task for absence from the Con- 
ference session and for not presenting his annual reports in a 
proper way. 

At various times brotherly acts of kindness were shown in a 
financial way. One brother was reimbursed for money which had 
been lost in transit to the Publishing House. Another was helped 
to purchase a horse in place of one he had accidentally lost by 
death. Still another received aid who had lost a valuable part of 
his household effects in moving. And a number of such happen- 
ings occurred to cheer and assist a brother in need. 

Woman Sufl'rage was upheld in the church. In 1871, in 
answer to a Mrs. H., of Indianapolis, whether women have a right 
to vote in church affairs, the following declaration was given by 
the Conference : No church society has the right to deny women 
who are full members of the society the right to vote in business 
meetings of the church, in view of the fact that women are ex- 
pected to take part in defraying the church expenses, and espe- 
cially also in view of the fact that there are widows and maiden 
ladies in societies who can have no substitutes, and would, there- 
fore, be wrong to deprive them of their franchise. 

Several times since Woman Suffrage, in a national sense, has 
been endorsed by suitable resolutions. 

346 



INTERESTING MISCELLANY 

In 1867 the Conference got the mutual aid fever and appointed 
a committee, consisting of B. Hoffman, M. W. Steffey and E. L. 
Kiplinger, and, after a year of patient waiting, the project was 
abandoned with disgust. 

In 1878 initiatory steps were taken to inaugurate "The In- 
diana Conference Fire Insurance Co." Blanks were issued, and a 
constitution with by-laws was formulated, which ended the mat- 
ter ! In 1895 a committee of three was appointed to draft a suit- 
able constitution for a mutual fire insurance for our churches and 
parsonages, and in '97 the Conference Board of Trustees was em- 
powered to take such steps as were necessary to complete such or- 
ganization. After a delay of several years it was discovered that, 
owing to the fact that the Indiana Conference extended into four 
States, it would be impractical to comply with the fire insurance 
requirements of each of these States, and, in 1900, the project was 
dropped. 

It seems as though tobacco was used by some of the Confer- 
ence members during the sessions. Hence it was tabooed in '62, 
'71, '86, forbidden altogether, at last, to new applicants for the 
ministry. The resolution of '62 reads: "It shall not be permit- 
ted for any member of the Conference to use tobacco on the Con- 
ference floor" ! War was considered as a great evil, but a lesser 
evil than slavery, and, therefore, none were prohibited from taking 
active part. The disapproval of the Conference of '60 rested upon 
secret societies and Sunday-school gift and reward books ; upon 
the former because they were considered a detriment to real church 
life, and the latter were considered a species of lottery. The ses- 
sion of 1885 condemned the skating rink as "a grave evil," and to 
be shunned. 

In 1914 every preacher that failed to have the episcopal por- 
tion in the hands of the treasurer by October was called to give 
account of such negligence. 

In 1871 Republican candidates for United States President 
and Vice-President, U. S. Grant and S. Colfax, respectively, were 
made honorary members of the Indiana Conference Missionary 
Society, and Mr. Seymore a life member. J. Kaufman, and lay 
members W. Just and C. Liphart, of South Bend, had the honor 
of presenting the certificate to Mr. Colfax. 

PARSONAGES 

Whereas, Quite a few of our parsonages are not kept in a com- 
fortable condition and in good repairs; and 

347 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Whereas, The moving; of heavy furniture involves a risk and 
expense; therefore be it 

Resolved, That we commend those societies who have taken 
advanced steps in these matters and would encourage others to in- 
stall furnaces and other heavy furnishings. 

District Parsonages. — The agitation of securing district par- 
sonages resulted in appointing the following persons to assist the 
Presiding Elders in this matter: Ft. Wayne District, Mrs. Cath. 
Hettler and And. Gottschalk ; Indianapolis District, And. Kramer 
and E. Pfaul; Elkhart District, G. W. Frederick and E. Hering; 
Louisville District, H. Duffendach and L. Katterhenry. No further 
action was taken. 

Several unusual, but very pleasant, events occurred during 
the Conference sessions. In '86, on Sunday, the Conference had 
the privilege of having the presence of two distinguished divines 
from the United Brethren Church. Bishops Wright and Weaver. 
Bishop Thomas Bowman invited them to participate in the ordi- 
nation of all deacons, namely, G. B. Holdeman, P. A. Orth and F. 
Rausch. In '91, Kichinosukee Kaneko, a Japanese, was licensed 
as a preacher on probation, as the Japan Conference had not yet 
been organized. Going to the Conference at Huntingburg, in 1908, 
a special car was chartered from Indianapolis for the brethren 
coming from Northern Indiana, who were thus spared the incon- 
venience of making three changes on the road. It was a great and 
uplifting experience, and highly appreciated by all in the group. 

In 1912 the General Conference officers of the United Brethren 
Church, residing in Dayton, were introduced to Conference in a 
body, whereupon Dr. Funk, publisher, and Colonel Cowden ad- 
dressed Conference in a fraternal manner. The chairman re- 
sponded to the address in a very befitting manner. 

The following suitable resolutions were read and adopted : 

Whereas, The General Conference officers of the United Breth- 
ren Church, resident in Dayton, 0., have visited our Conference 
in a body, and have thus manifested a most affectionate fraternal 
and Christian spirit, to which Dr. Fank, their spokesman, and 
Colonel Cowden have given voice in most felicitous addresses ; 
therefore 

Resolved, (1) That we greatly rejoice in this unusual occur- 
rence, which portends a constantly increasing spirit of unity and 
fraternity among the followers of Him who prayed that we should 
be one in order that the world might believe. 

(2) That we rejoice in the continued prosperity of the 
United Brethren in Christ, in all their interests and enterprises, 

348 



INTERESTING MISCELLANY 

and sincerely wish them an ever enlarging sphere of influence and 
usefulness. 

(3) That we heartily reciprocate this fraternal spirit and 
earnestly pray that the spiritual descendants of Philip Otterbein 
and of Jacob Albright, one in doctrine, one in spirit, one in method, 
one in polity, practically contemporaneous in history, may more 
and more foster and promote the spirit of unity and co-operation 
which is so essential to the highest realization of God's purpose 
for His church in the world. 

In 1915, the Reverends E. J. Maupin, Willard Pell, E. E. 
DeWitt and 0. A. Trabue, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, rep- 
resenting a fraternal delegation from the North Indiana Confer- 
ence of the Methodist Episcopal Church, were introduced to Con- 
ference. 

Dr. Trabue conveyed the greetings of said Conference now in 
session at Auburn, Indiana. The chairman responded in a few 
w^ell-chosen remarks. 

The following resolution was then adopted : 

Inasmuch, As the Committee on Resolutions will not be able 
to report concerning the visit of the fraternal delegation of the 
North Indiana Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church to 
this Conference in the presence of these visiting brethren ; there- 
fore be it 

Resolved, That we, as a Conference, greatly appreciate the 
spirit manifested by this fraternal visitation. That we have lis- 
tened with pleasure to the fraternal address of their spokesman, 
Dr. Trabue, and that we respectfully request him to convey the 
greetings of this Conference to the Northern Indiana Conference 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

A DOCTRINAL STATEMENT 

At the session, held in 1897, the following holiness resolution 
was adopted : 

Whereas, The subject of Holiness has been discussed and con- 
sidered on this Conference floor, and 

Whereas, There has arisen a difterence of opinion regarding 
whether or not sanctification is a second work of God in the heart ; 
therefore 

Resolved, That we, as members of the Indiana Conference, 
will stand by the doctrine of holiness as taught by our church fa- 
thers and as has been explained by our Senior Bishop, J. J. Esher, 
on this Conference floor, viz., "That entire sanctification is not to 

349 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

be considered as a second work, distinct from regeneration, but 
as an advanced and higher degree of the believer's state of grace, 
and in the divine life into which he enters in regeneration, where- 
by he is made a partaker of the divine nature and the divine life^ 
and becomes a temple of the Holy Ghost, by whom he is sealed unto 
Christ and the communion of his saints, and who dwells in him 
as the earnest of his inheritance here, in the kingdom of grace, 
and finally in the kingdom of glory, and by whose gracious work in 
him he is cleansed from all sin and perfected in the love of God, 
to keep the commandments of God, and to a constantly increasing 
growth in divine knowledge, spiritual strength, fruitfulness in 
good works, and blessedness of this state of grace, all of which has 
its beginning in regeneration, whereby its elements and potency 
are implanted in the heart of the regenerate, or the child of God, 
and to the perfection whereof the child of God attains by walk- 
ing in the light of God's truth, and by the faith of Jesus Christ. 
Entire sanctification, then, is not a second and separate work 
from regeneration, but, rather, the continuation of our renewal 
and perfection in Christ by one and the same gracious work of the 
Holy Spirit." 



Reminiscences. 

BY D. S. OAKES AND OTHERS 

In the early days of the Conference, two of the great pioneers 
from another Conference, and who were now well along in years, 
were to preach at one of the sessions. These great men from 
abroad were to be an inspiration and pattern to the young, in- 
experienced men that formed this new Conference. But, alas ! 
both of them were so badly brushed that no one knew just what 
they wanted to say ! This was an encouragement to the young and 
timid men of the Conference ! 

Bishop Jos. Long was not only noted for his extraordinary 
profundity, eloquence and unction, but, also, for a peculiar brusque- 
ness of speech which not only caused some to fear him, but, also, 
sometimes caused himself deep regret. At the Conference ses- 
sion, held at East Germantown, in 1862, a resolution was passed, 
requiring the Bishop to go to a certain place to try to effect the ad- 
justment of a very unpleasant and complicated affair. The Bishop 
demurred, but the Conference was inflexible. When he saw the 
inevitable he impulsively exclaimed, "Da mocht' der Hund Bischof 
sein" (Here the dog might be Bishop). The inconsiderate and 

350 



REMINISCENCES 

uncouth expression struck the Conference with manifest astonish- 
ment, mingled with disapproval, which, of course, the Bishop ob- 
served, and he realized the impropriety of his undignified exclama- 
tion. At noon one of the Presiding Elders, boarding at the same 
place with the Bishop, having occasion to go up-stairs, was aston- 
ished to find the Bishop sitting on one of the steps of the stair- 
way with deeply bowed head. He asked : "Ei, Bischof, was machst 
du da?" (Why, Bishop, what are you doing here?). The reply 
was: "Ich bin am Busse tun" (I am repenting). 

A certain well-meaning brother in the Conference was dis- 
posed to have something to say, whether pertinent or otherwise, 
upon every subject coming before the Conference. It tried the 
Bishop's patience. One day this good brother again arose, with- 
out really having anything to say to the point, and began some- 
what hesitatingly, when the Bishop, adjusting his wig, looked out 
from beneath his massive eyebrows, said, "Brother, if you don't 
know anything to say, keep still." This same brother, on an- 
other occasion, having left the Conference room, returned just as 
the "ayes" on some motion were being called. Without knowing- 
at all what was pending, he responded with a voluminous "Ja" 
(Aye), The Bishop looked at him somewhat humorously and 
asked, "Brother, what did you vote for?" The brother was non- 
plussed, but not suppressed, and the Conference was amused. 

At the Conference of 1865 it was the privilege of D. S. Oakes 
to share the Bishop's place of entertainment at Dr. B.'s. The doc- 
tor was very partial to "secret orders," and the Bishop was equally 
averse. On Sabbath morning the Bishop rose early and, taking his 
seat in the family sitting-room, was intently studying his Bible, 
preparatory for his ordination sermon of the day. As soon as the 
doctor came in he began a strong advocacy of a certain order. The 
Bishop answered in monosyllables. This was continued until time 
for family worship. After prayer the doctor again began and 
resumed his fusillade after they were seated at the breakfast table. 
Finally the Bishop said very calmly, "Doctor, if I were not afraid 
of offending you, I would like to say something." "Oh, no, no," 
said the doctor, in his most suave manner, "you will not offend 
me at all." "Well," said the Bishop, sternly, "all morning you 
have been annoying me with your talk about your orders, and 
you know I have to preach today. / believe it is of the devil. 
The doctor was most effectually squelched. 

D. S. Oakes, in speaking of old pioneer workers, their guile- 
lessness and unselfishness in their labors with one another for the 
Master, cites two cases : "Rev. B. was a college graduate and a 

351 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

man of courteous manner and gentlemanly bearing. On a certain 
field of labor, which he served, lived a Brother M., who was illit- 
erate and who harbored an innate antipathy to the preachers, espe- 
cially if he was solicited to contribute for any benevolent or re- 
ligious cause. After Rev. B. had left the work his successor, one 
day conversing with M., in some way mentioned Rev. B.'s name, 
whereupon he was greeted with, "Huh ! B. don't know as much as 
a last year's bird's-nest." As a contrast to the above, Bro. Oakes 
cited a case of a brother who was three years under his pastorate, 
who called himself "Joe," and by the people was generally called 
"Honest Joe," He came out of "Babel," as he himself often said, 
and thanked God publicly that he came to the light. He was con- 
verted and joined the church some time in the '40's. 0. says, "One 
day he brought me a load of haj^ ; as he was driving in, a neighbor, 
an old and prominent citizen, came across the way to look at it. I 
remarked, 'That is good hay, Mr. I.' He replied, 'If Joe says so 
it is.' I felt proud of my rural parishioner. His regular sub- 
scription at the annual renewal of their missionary auxiliary was 
ten dollars, besides his frequent special contributions for that pur- 
pose, and yet his farm consisted of but 40 acres. One day I drove 
out to Joe's house, and while there he asked me if I knew of any- 
one wanting to buy a good young cow. I said, 'Yes, Brother H. 
has just lost his cow.' The H. family were poor members of our 
church in town. Joe looked queer and shrugged his shoulders. I 
was surprised until he said, in his quaint drawl, 'Yes, I don't like to 
let H. have her, for I don't like to charge him full value, since 
he is a poor man, and this is not my cow, but the Lord's, and I 
don't like to sell her under value.' He then told me how the dam 
of this cow, when a calf had sickened and he had promised the 
Lord if he would spare the dam for the calf's sake, he would raise 
the calf for him." He also told me of an experience he once had 
with a fine calf which was a gift to the Lord. "One day the 
butcher came to buy it. He wanted seven dollars for it, but the 
butcher said he would give but six ; so he let him take it. But no 
sooner was the butcher gone than the devil came and said, 
'Ah, ha, Joe, if that had been your calf you would have stuck for 
your seven dollars, but since it was the Lord's, and didn't affect 
your pocket-book, you let it go.' 'But,' said Joe, 'I soon got ahead 
of the old fellow there. I reached into my pocket and put another 
dollar to it. So now I want full price for this cow.' " Joe also 
had an orchard in which one tree was the Lord's, and all the pro- 
ceeds of it that could be disposed of went for some special religious 
purpose. It was a remarkable fact, observed by many and by me, 

352 



REMINISCENCES 

that one year, while all the orchards between B. and M., a dis- 
tance of fifteen miles, were nearly without fruit, Joe's orchard, 
the Lord's tree included, was loaded. 

D. S. Oakes once related a circumstance about as follows : 
At a revival, held in Eastern Indiana, a big sinner, possessing a 
deep voice, came to the altar with other penitents. He bawled out 
loudly for mercy. But it was soon discovered that he was feigning 
penitence. The preacher then bowed in prayer, imploring God 
to save the sincere penitent, and then he asked the Lord to have 
pity upon this big, bawling bullfrog. This stopped his bawling 
and mockery. After this he was known as "big bullfrog" in this 
community. 

At the Conference session in Louisville, Ky., in 1898, a witty 
remark fell from the presiding Bishop. A young brother, who, 
upon the discussion of some subject, arose and stood in the main 
aisle, close to the Bishop, said, "I fail to have an understanding," 
and then hesitated, when, suddenly, the Bishop saw his good-sized 
feet, said, "It appears to me you have considerable undei^standing." 

At a revival meeting, conducted in the Methodist Episcopal 
Church in Bippus, Ind., the historian assisted the Methodist Epis- 
copal pastor. One evening, when the pastor gave the invitation 
for sinners to bow at the altar, two young men came forward from 
the rear of the church, knelt at the altar, then, putting their 
hands before their faces, looked at each other between their 
fingers and grinned. This was seen by the brother assisting, who 
determined that it was meant for pure mockery, or a huge joke. 
Having so informed the pastor, who rather doubted their insin- 
ceritj^ he asked a United Brethren class-leader to talk law and 
Gospel to one, while he would attend to the other. The mockers 
grew uncomfortable and wished themselves away. But there was 
no getting away, as both were constantly spoken to with great 
earnestness to the close of the meeting. When the meeting was 
out they both broke for the door. The next morning it was learned 
that the saloon-keeper of the village had dared them out to the 
altar on a wager of $5.00 and all the beer they wanted to drink 
that night. They brought evidence to the saloon-keeper that they 
were at the altar and got their money and beer. Then the saloon- 
keeper dared them to repeat the act upon a second wager. But 
they would not for any money or beer. They had their fill of go- 
ing to the altar. They confessed they had a hot time at the altar 
and would not venture any more such experiences and be talked 
to as they were that night. 

353 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

An eccentric Brother M. in the city of K. was a general 
"knocker." He was bitter against organs in church, claiming 
that the very devil lives in them. He found great fault with 
preachers who wore whiskers or a mustache. He said one time 
that preachers with a mustache remind him of a man who tried 
to swallow a whole fox and could not get the tail down. He was a 
stauncl'i Democrat, and, having little use for a Republican, when 
his wife died he carefully chose pall-bearers of his party, but after 
the funeral was to discover that he had had one Republican ! 

In '87, P. E. Berger found it necessary to locate, and, there- 
fore, resigned his office soon after Conference. H. Arlen, who 
had been appointed to Van Wert, was elected in his place. Some- 
one would have to be sent to Van Wert, and word came to S. H, 
Baumgartner from his Presiding Elder that in all probability 
he would have to move to Van Wert. The people at West Point, 
now Bippus, where B. was stationed, strenuously resisted, and, 
moreover, the elder instructed him to wait for more definite in- 
formation. One card after another came, bringing the same in- 
telligence. After a five weeks' suspense word was received to get 
ready to move to Van Wert. Carpets that had been carefully 
tacked down were just ready to be taken up, when, lo, a telegram 
came, saying, "You need not move; J. H. Evans will go to Van 
Wert." It was, indeed, a tedious trial for one just starting out, 
but a good brother consolingly allowed, "If Brother B. and his^ 
wife are gold, they will endure the test" ! 



General Conference Recommendations 

The Indiana Conference has ever been in the forefront in the 
great work of the church, and has manifested it by active interest 
in the deliberations of the General Conference. Among the many 
recommendations that she presented these seem to be of most 
vital concern : 

1854. That the basis of ministerial representation to Gen- 
eral Conference be one for every seven ministers in the itinerancy 
instead of one to four, as had been the case heretofore, and that 
the exhorter's term of office be two years, as is the case of class- 
leaders. 

1899. That a suitable Quarterly Conference record be pub- 
lished, wherein the proceedings of the Quarterly Conferences may 
be properly and uniformly recorded. 

354 



GENERAL CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATIONS 

1907. The Conference voted against the removal of the time 
h!mit by a vote of 62 to 9. 

1915. Again the Conference, this time unanimously, voted 
against the removal of the time limit. 

LAY DELEGATES TO GENERAL CONFERENCE 

Inasmuch as the present law of electing nominees as candi- 
dates for lay delegates to General Conference (Discipline, para- 
graph No. 86, page 59) is somewhat cumbersome to carry out, and 
does not always result in the election of the best and most effi- 
cient men for lay delegates to General Conference, from the fact 
that many Quarterly Conferences are unfamiliar with the needs 
of the church and the ability of men on the different fields ; there- 
fore 

Resolved, That we recommend that the present law shall be 
so amended as to read, "The lay delegates to General Conference 
shall be elected from among the lay delegates and alternates in the 
Annual Conference at the annual session immediately preceding 
the session of the General Conference," thus assuring as lay dele- 
gates to the General Conference men who have at least some ex- 
perience in Conference work, and thus also do away with the 
necessity of electing the nominees for candidates to Annual Con- 
ference by the Quarterly Conference members, as now prescribed. 

Resolved, further. That the secretary of each Annual Confer- 
ence shall provide printed ballots with the names of such dele- 
gates and alternates at the time of election of lay delegates to Gen- 
eral Conference, from which number the members of Annual Con- 
ference shall elect the required number of lay delegates and alter- 
nates to General Conference. 

REVISION OF CHURCH HYMNAL 

Since it is very essential that every church has and use in the 
public worship a hymnal peculiarly her own, and believing that the 
Evangelical Hymnal should hold such a place in our denomination, 
but being convinced that its revision would make it even a greater 
blessing than it is now ; be it 

Resolved, That the Indiana Conference delegates to General 
Conference be instructed to petition that body for an action which 
will at once effect such revision. 

CONCERNING GRADUATES 

Resolved, That our delegates to the coming General Confer- 
ence be instructed to introduce and support the following rec- 
ommendation from the Indiana Conference : 

355 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Whereas, North-Western College and the Evangelical Theo- 
logical Seminary, of Naperville, Illinois, and Schuylkill Seminary, 
of Reading, Pa., are Evangelical institutions, founded by Evangel- 
icals, for Evangelicals, in charge of competent, loyal Evangelicals ; 
and 

Whereas, The requirement that students of these institutions 
pass the academic and theological studies, provided by the Confer- 
ence Examining Boards, imposes heavy and needless burdens upon 
such candidates for ministerial orders who have already completed 
such studies in the regular curriculum of these schools ; and 

Whereas, Such requirement serves practically to discount 
the woik of our own institutions of learning, 

Therefore, Resolved, That we recommend — 

1. That there be framed and included in the Discipline of 
the Evangelical Association, a provision which shall exempt stu- 
dents of our educational institutions from examinations in any 
and all studies properly completed in these institutions. 

2. That in order to claim such exemption the candidates 
must present proper certificates from these schools, attesting the 
fact that they have passed examination in the studies mentioned. 

3. That certificates and diplomas from any other institu- 
tions, recognized as of equal rank with the above mentioned schools, 
may be accepted as evidence of the scholarship of the candidate. 

4. That any licentiate who has completed the full course 
of study in the Evangelical Theological Seminary and has passed 
the examinations entitling him to a diploma from that institu- 
tion, shall be excused from examination in all the biblical and 
theological studies in the Conference courses. 

5. That the General Conference shall appoint a commission 
which shall formulate a uniform test as to the licentiate's per- 
sonal attitude to the doctrines and faith of the Evangelical Asso- 
ciation. 



Lay Delegation to Annual Conference. 

The Conference session of 1909 was privileged to have the 
presence of lay delegates. It was an innovation that was hearti- 
ly welcomed and more thoroughly appreciated as the years went 
by. At the session, held in 1910, the lay delegates presented the 
following resolution that was signed by all of them: 

To the members of the Indiana Conference : "We, the lay 
members of your Conference, desire to express our appreciation 

356 



GENERAL CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATIONS 

of the cordiality, courtesy and love shown us while among you 
during- this session, and to assure you that the enlarged under- 
standing of the Pastors' and Presiding Elders' duties and diffi- 
culties that has come to us during this session, relation shall be 
the means of stimulating us to a still closer co-operation in our 
respective societies. We also desire to call upon our lay mem- 
bers as a whole to aid with their means, their prayers, and in 
every possible way the work of their Pastors and Presiding El- 
ders. Particularly do we feel that we should do all that we can 
to bring about the payment of a commensurate compensation to 
the men who so self-sacrificingly serve their God and us, and, 
further, that we should urge the hearty support of our lay mem- 
bers to every effort of their Pastors and Presiding Elders in rais- 
ing funds for the objects of our Conference, the church at large 
and God's Kingdom in general." 

In 1911 the lay delegates presented the following resolution 
with reference to the reunion of the spiritual sons of Albright: 

As representatives of the lay members of the Indiana Con- 
ference, we, the undersigned lay delegates in attendance at this 
the fifty-ninth session, desire to express our joy at the prelim- 
inary steps which have been taken to bring about the union of the 
Evangelical Association and the United Evangelical Church. We 
believe this feeling is shared by the lay members generally, and 
sincerely hope and earnestly pray that in the providence of God 
this desirable object may be accomplished in the near future, 
and that it may truly be said that "we are not divided. All one 
body we. One in hope and doctrine, One in charity." F. H. 
Hersh, E. G. Eberhardt, J. E. May, Samuel Wise, Noah Barnhei- 
sel, E. A. Zerkel, N. C. Lehman, E. F. Kimmel, G. W. Frederick, 
L. Miller, Chas. B. Braitling, E. M. Ray, L. Katterhenry, G. 
Swartzlose. 

At the session, held in 1912, the lay delegates offered the 
following resolutions : 

We, the lay delegates in attendance at the sixtieth session 
of the Indiana Conference, desire to express our appreciation of 
the action taken at the last General Conference of the Evangeli- 
cal Association, held at Cleveland, Ohio, and hereby express our 
approval of the plan adopted for the care of disabled ministers 
and their families, and pledge our influence and support to this 
Superannuation Fund and recommend that the laity of the In- 
diana Conference respond liberally to this worthy cause. 

After these resolutions were read the chairman addressed 
Conference in the interest of the superannuation fund in an in- 

357 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

teresting and effective manner. The address stirred the hearts 
of the people to such an extent that a number of the laymen in 
Conference assembled responded with liberal gifts for the sup- 
port of the superannuation fund, which were very greatly ap- 
preciated by the ministers of the Conference, (See Donations, 
Bequests, etc.) 

The following m.en have served as lay delegates : Elkhart 
District: Noah Barnheisel, of Akron, 3 times; Chas. Rhodes, of 
Bremen, 3 times; G. W. Frederick, of Elkhart, 7 times; Noah 
C. Lehman, of South Bend, Mizpah, 3 times; W. S. Easterday, 
of Culver, 4 times; Geo. Long, of South Bend, 1st, 4 times; D. 
L. Speicher, of Urbana, 3 times ; Geo. Schafer, of Bunker Hill, 
as alternate, 1 time. Evansville District: Chas. Braitling, of 
Louisville, Zion, 3 times; Lenhart Miller, of Carmi, 3 times; G. 
Schwartzlose, of West Salem, 2 times ; Chas. Wienand, of Terre 
Taute, 1 time ; Louis Katterhenry, alternate, of Huntingburg, 1 
time; 0. Unbehauen, alternate, of Mt. Carmel, 1 time. Ft. Wayne 
District: L. E. Gordon, of Huntington, 2 times; Wm. Mertz, of 
Ft. Wayne, 5 times; E. M. Ray, of Berne, 7 times; E. A. Zerkle, 
of Waterloo, 3 times ; Frank Hersh, of Avilla, as alternate, 2 
times; as delegate, 4 times; Fred Stedcke, of Celina Circuit, 3 
times; W. B. Johnson, of St. Peter's, 1 time. Indianapolis Dis- 
trict: E. G. Eberhardt, of Indianapolis, 1st, 3 times; E. F. Kim- 
mel, of Dayton, Wayne Ave., 3 times; D. E. Speicher, of Ur- 
bana, 2 times; Sam Wise, of Bunker Hill, 2 times; W. H. H. 
Ecki, of Dayton, Wayne Ave., 4 times ; Wm. Herman, of Louis- 
ville, Zion, 4 times; W. L. Miller, of Carmi, 4 times; C. A. New- 
man, of Olney, 4 times; John May, as alternate, of Ridgeville, 1 
time; L. D. Rush, as alternate, of Logansport, 1 time. Those 
who have been elected as alternates, but have not as yet attended 
a Conference session in this capacity, are : Elkhart District : J. 

F. Kumler, of Rochester; Chas. L. Reinoehl, of South Bend, Miz- 
pah; A. G. Winey, of Elkhart, 1st; Chas. Rhodes, of Bremen; J. 
W. Weaver, of Kokomo; H. Weiss, of Mishawaka. Evansville 
District: D. Finkbeiner, of Marshall; Leo Herman, of Evans- 
AT'ille. Ft. Wayne District: Mm. Maetzner, of Portland Circuit; 

G. W. Sparks, of Waterloo; J. Trachsel, of Bippus; Dr. H. W. 
Cook, of Hicksville; J. D. Leininger, of Huntington; W. D, 
Maines, of Kendallville. Indianapolis District: E. Pfauhl, of 
Dayton, 1st; P. W. Soltau, of Indianapolis, Grace; E. G. Ender- 
line, of Indianapolis, Grace; A. Kramer, of Indianapolis, 1st; Ed. 
Seitz, of Mt. Carmel. 

358 



COURSE OF STUDY, EXAMINATION JUNIOR PREACHERS 

Regulations and Course of Study for Junior 

Preachers. 

The first examinations for junior preachers in the Indiana 
Conference were held in 1853, The Presiding Bishop examined 
on Theology and Bible reading, G. G. Platz on Church Discipline, 
and A. Nicolai on Grammar. Since then all junior preachers 
had to undergo yearly examinations. 

HOW SOME EXAMINATIONS WERE HELD 

In the early part of the history of the Conference, exam- 
iners would ask the examinees to sit in a row. Then he would 
question them on the studies they were to be examined in. The 
examiner would usually begin at the upper end of the row, like in 
a spelling school class, and ask the first one a question. After 
the answer was given with a mien of some knowledge, and with 
apparent confidence that the answer was correct, then the ex- 
aminer would go down the row and ask each one, "Was the 
question answered correctly?" If they believed that the first one 
gave a correct answer, they would assent by "Ja" ; if not, they 
were to give a better answer. The examinees soon observed 
the usual rule where questioning began, and the less informed 
would try to have the best informed among them head the row. 
If they thought he answered well, then they usually would bow 
their heads with a "Ja" (Yes) , and look wise. But it was later 
discovered that there were some examinees who only, parrot-like, 
repeated what the first one said. If he was right the rest were, 
and if he was wrong the rest usually were the same. So new 
and better methods were adopted from time to time. 

Because some examiners were unreasonable in their de- 
mands, especially some that never took an examination them- 
selves, certain restrictions have been placed, safeguarding the 
rights of the examinees. Since some examiners would ask from 
50 to 70 questions, a rule was passed, prohibiting examiners ask- 
ing more than 25 questions on any one subject. This was in '84. 
In '98 a strong set of resolutions were passed, relative to delin- 
quencies in Conference studies, which rules have been reprinted 
annually. The rules, as they are now in force, read as follows : 

CONCERNING APPLICANTS 

1. Applicants for license shall be duly notified by their pas- 
tor of their requirements, and it shall be the duty of all appli- 
cants to be present at the opening of the examinations, 

359 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

2. No applicant shall have a license voted him unless he 
has passed the required examinations. 

3. If it is impossible for applicants for license to be present 
at the examinations, they shall be permitted to make their ex- 
aminations in the presence of an elder in active service, or a pro- 
fessor in one of our schools. 

CONCERNING EXAMINATIONS 

1. Each examiner is to give two or three questions more 
than the examinee shall be required to answer. 

2. No examiner shall give more than twenty questions to 
be answered, but shall use his own judgment as to the number 
of questions to be given. 

3. The examination shall not be in written form exclusive- 
ly, but oral questions shall be put in connection with the written 
ones. Examinations in Catechism shall be oral only. 

4. The minimum in any study shall be 50, the average 70. 

5. The examiner shall construct his questions from the text- 
book used, the questions to be of a very representative and general 
nature. 

6. Hereafter the examinees shall not be permitted to use 
notes during their examinations. 

7. The studies marked with an asterisk (*) shall be taken 
during the first nine months of the Conference year ; and as many 
more as the examinee and examiner can agree upon. The exam- 
ination is to be made in the presence of an examiner, or of an 
elder in active service. 

8. It shall be the duty of examiners and examinees to be 
present at the beginning of the examinations. 

9. If any examinee should have any grievance to make, he 
shall appeal to his examiner. If these cannot agree, the matter 
shall be referred to the Board of Examiners. 

10. No examinee shall be permitted to take any examination 
in an advanced year until he has successfully passed the previous 
year's studies in full. 

CONCERNING DELINQUENTS 

1. Promotion shall not be granted a junior preacher unless 
he has made the required examinations. This resolution shall not 
be waived unless the student can give a satisfactory reason why 
he has not made such examinations. 

2. Any junior preacher in active service, whether proba- 
tioner or deacon, who carelessly fails to make any examination for 

360 



COURSE OF STUDY, EXAMINATION JUNIOR PREACHERS 

two successive years, shall be severely reprimanded by the chair- 
man for such carelessness, and any junior preacher failing to com- 
plete his course of studies during eight years of active service in 
the ministry shall be located until he has completed his studies, 
or he shall have his license revoked. 

3. It shall be the specific duty of the secretary of the Board 
of Examiners to report any and all delinquent examinees to the 
Conference. 

CONCERNING REQUIRED READINGS 

1. It shall be the duty of examiners of sermons to inquire 
into the number of books read, and the student shall receive credit 
for such reading in the Report of Examinations. 

2. All examiners and examinees shall secure a copy of our 
course of study for junior preachers from our Publishing House, 
where the course is completely outlined, and all required reading 
specifically indicated. 

3. It shall be the duty of all examiners and examinees to 
hold themselves strictly to the letter of these regulations. 

CONCERNING GRADUATES FROM COLLEGE, ETC. 

Resolved, That those students who ijassed a satisfactory ex- 
amination of North-Western College and Evangelical Theologi- 
cal Seminary, or who are graduates from other colleges or uni- 
versities, providing the Board of Examiners of the Annual Confer- 
ence and the presiding Bishop shall deem the grades of such insti- 
tutions satisfactory in such studies as appear in the Conference 
Course of Study, shall be exempt from another examination by 
the Board of Examination. 

COURSE OF STUDY FOR JUNIOR PREACHERS 

FOR APPLICANTS 

A knowledge of the common branches is presupposed. 

1. United States History, any history used in high schools; 
Outline of History — Swineon ; How to Conduct a Sunday-School 
— Lawrence ; Examiner, B. E. Koenig. 

2. Outline of Church History — Hurst; History of the Evan- 
gelical Association, 1st and 2nd periods — Yeakel ; Church Disci- 
pline, Parts I to IV. Examiner, I. H. Griesemer. 

3. Theological Compendium — Binney; Catechism of the 
Evangelical Association — Esher; Scriptural History — Blaikie. 
Examiner, D. O. Wise. 

361 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

FIRST YEAR 

1. Biblical Geography — Hurlburt; Modern Rhetoric — Merk- 
ley; written sermon on the Fall of Man, to be examined as to doc- 
trine, rhetoric and homiletics. Examiner, D. E. Zechiel. 

2. History of the Evangelical Association, 3d period to end 
— Yeakel ; Church Discipline, Parts V to VIII ; General History, 
Revised, pages 1 to 304 — Myers. Examiner, M. W. Sunderman. 

3. Manual of Christian Doctrine, pages 1 to 185 — Banks ; 
Introduction to the Old Testament — Raven. Examiner, E. Q. 
Laudeman. 

SECOND YEAR 

1. History of the Evangelical Association, Vol. II — Yeakel; 
Church History, Ancient and Medieval — Fisher; General History, 
Revised, page 305 to end — Myers. Examiner, E. W. Praetorius. 

2. Manual of Christian Doctrine, page 189 to end — Banks ; 
Introduction to the New Testament — Kerr. Examiner, C. H. 
Burgener. 

3. Old Testament Theology — Oehler; a written sermon on 
the Person of Christ to be examined as to doctrine, rhetoric and 
homiletics. Examiner, J. J. Wise. 

THIRD YEAR 

1. New Testament Theology — Stevens; Systematic Theol- 
ogy — Curtis; a written sermon on the plan of Redemption, to be 
examined as to doctrine, rhetoric and homiletics. Examiner, J. O. 
Hosier. 

2. Preparation and Delivery of Sermon — Broadus; History 
of Missions — Warneck ("Aliens or Americans" accepted as substi- 
tute this year) ; Church History, Modern Era — Fisher. Examiner, 
F. S. Erne. 

3. Psychology — Hill. Examiner, G. B. Kimmel. 

FOURTH YEAR 

1. Hermeneutics — Terry. Examiner, G. B. Kimmel. 

2. Personal Salvation — Tillet ; A written sermon on Christian 
Perfection, to be examined as to doctrine, rhetoric and homiletics. 
Examiner, F. L. Snyder. 

3. Logic — Hill. Examiner, P. L. Browns. 

4. Pastoral Theology — Hoppin ; Digest of Discipline. Ex- 
aminer, C. E. Geist. 

5. Christianity and the Social Crisis — Rauschenbush ; Re- 
ligion a Rational Demand — Kirn. Examiner, A. B. Haist. 

362 



STUDENT AID FUND 
Board of Examiners. 

The following- rules were adopted : 

Resolved, 1. That the Board of Examiners be appointed for a 
term of four years, on the same branches and in the same year, 
after which the examiners can again be reappointed on the same 
branches, or be substituted by others. 

Resolved, 2. That if vacancies occur between Conference 
sessions, the president and secretary of the Board of Examiners 
shall have power to appoint examiners to fill such vacancies for the 
forthcoming- examinations. 

Resolved, 3. That the examiner of Systematic Theology in 
the 4th year shall always be the president of the Board of Ex- 
aminations, and the examiner of Systematic Theology in the 3d 
year shall always be the secretary thereof. 

•<^^Note. — The New Course of Study, now in use, not having 
Theology in the 4th year, the following change had to be made 
in 1912. The examiner in Systematic Theology in third year is 
to be the president of the Board of Examiners, and the examiner 
in Psychology and Hermeneutics in 4th year the secretary. 

In 1906 a Lecture Course was introduced, to be observed in 
connection with the examination of junior preachers. 



Student Aid Fund. 

At the session of 1908, Rev. F. L. Snyder presented the need 
of some fund that would enable students who are worthy to com- 
plete their school training. The following resolution was adopted : 

Concerning the matter presented to the Conference by Bro. 
F, L. Snyder, with regard to establishing a fund for the purpose 
of giving practical aid to young men v/ho feel called to the min- 
istry and find them.selves without financial resources, your com- 
mittee, therefore, begs leave to submit the following: 

We heartily appreciate the deep interest taken in this mat- 
ter by Bro. Snyder and the successful preliminary work already 
done by him, especially the solicitation of funds and subscriptions. 

Whereas, We believe this to be a most worthy and commend- 
able project, its aim and purpose charitable and benevolent, and its 
inauguration timely; therefore 

Resolved, That we are in hearty sympathy with this move- 
ment, and that immediate steps should be taken to establish a per- 
manent fund. 

363 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

We would, therefore, recommend first, that a board of five 
be appointed by this Conference, which shall be known as the 
Board of Directors, whose duty it shall be to administer the moneys 
of this fund. This Board shall also devise a plan for the admin- 
istration of said fund, which plan shall be presented to the next 
Annual Conference for consideration. 

Secondly, That we urge our ministers to solicit funds wher- 
ever practicable for this worthy cause. 

Thirdly, That the Conference Treasurer serve as custodian 
for this fund. 

At the succeeding session the following Constitution was 
adopted : 

ARTICLE I — NAME 

The name of this organization shall be known as "The Stu- 
dent Aid Society" of the Indiana Conference of the Evangelical 
Association. 

ARTICLE II — OBJECT 

The object of the Student Aid Society shall be to give prac- 
tical aid to young men who feel themselves called of God to the 
ministry of the Gospel, but find themselves without the necessary 
means for obtaining a collegiate and theological education. 

ARTICLE III — DIRECTORS 

The student Aid Society shall consist of a board of seven di- 
rectors, to whom written application for aid must be made on or 
before the first day of each Conference session, who shall at the 
place and time where Conference is held consider all applications, 
and be empowered to act according to their judgment. But the 
Board of Directors shall be required to give an annual report of 
their work and of the financial condition of the society to the An- 
nual Conference for information and approval. 

ARTICLE IV — OFFICERS 

The officers of the Student Aid Society shall consist of a pres- 
ident, secretary and treasurer, to be elected from among their 
own number at each annual meeting. Their duties shall be as pre- 
scribed in the By-Laws Section. This Board shall have power to ap- 
point a financial agent from either the ministry or laity, whose 
duty shall be as prescribed in By-Laws, Section IV. 

ARTICLE V — ELECTION 

The election of the Board of Directors of the Student Aid 
Society shall be by ballot from among the elders in the ministry 

364 



STUDENT AID FUND 

and lay members of the Conference to hold office as follows: Two 
for one year, two for two years and three for three years, and 
thereafter all newly elected for three years, except when vacancies 
occur by death or otherwise, they shall be filled for the unexpired 
term. The Bishop of the Conference shall at a suitable time 
in the beginning of the Conference session appoint a nominating 
committee, which shall carefully select twice the number of can- 
didates required to fill the vacancies, from which to elect men to 
the Board. 

ARTICLE VI — QUORUM 

Four members of the Board of Directors shall constitute a 
quorum at all meetings for the transaction of business. 

ARTICLE VII — WHO MAY RECEIVE AID 

To receive aid from the herein-named society the applicant 
must have a license to preach from a Conference in the Evangeli- 
cal Association and must pledge himself to serve as preacher in 
the Indiana Conference at least until the debt is paid as prescribed 
in the By-Laws, Section V. 

ARTICLE VIII — AMENDING OF THE CONSTITUTION 

It shall require two-thirds of the membership of the Annual 
Conference in session to change or amend the Constitution, notice 
thereof to be given the first day of Conference session by the secre- 
tary of the Board of Directors. 

By-Laws 
section i — president 

The president shall preside at all business meetings of the 
Board of Directors of the above-named society, and shall have a 
right to vote. In his absence a president pro tem shall be chosen. 

SECTION II — RECORDING SECRETARY 

The recording secretary shall be the custodian of all records 
and documents belonging to the society, and shall keep accurate 
minutes of all m.eetings, and transcribe them into a permanent 
record after they have been approved. He shall also give due 
notice to the members of the Board of all meetings to be held, 
and attend to such other duties as usually pertain to his office. 

SECTION III — TREASURER 

The treasurer shall take good care of all finances received, 
pay out or invest all moneys belonging to or accruing to the so- 

365 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ciety, as instructed by the Board of Directors. He shall submit 
an annual account to the Board for approval, which in turn shall 
report to the Conference in session and the same shall be audited 
before adopted. 

SECTION IV — FINANCIAL AGENT 

The financial agent appointed by the Board of Directors shall 
act under its instructions. It shall be his duty to solicit aid for 
the education of needy young men, by donations, annuities, be- 
quests and other methods, as agreed by Conference. He shall 
keep careful account of his annual expenses in the interest of the 
society and report to the annual meeting of the Board of Direc- 
tors, which shall be approved by them before the treasurer is or- 
dered to pay them. The financial agent shall be allowed $10.00 
per annum for his services. 

SECTION V — AID 

The aid from this fund shall be in the form of loans, as fol- 
lows: The maximum amount per year for a preparatory student 
shall be $50.00 ; for a student of the collegiate grade or in an ad- 
vanced seminary course, $85.00. The maximum total amount 
loaned to any student shall be $450.00. Upon his final gradua- 
tion each student shall annually pay back at least $10.00 and in- 
terest, until paid. If, however, the entire amount is returned 
within six years from the date of his final graduation (or leav- 
ing school) , only 1 per cent interest shall be charged. 

SECTION VI — CONDITIONS OF AID 

1. The applicant must be a member of the Evangelical As- 
sociation in good standing, the same being certified by his class- 
leader and pastor, as provided in application blank. He must give 
good security for the return of the borrowed money. He must 
show adaptation to study by passing a satisfactory examination 
of the prescribed course of study for applicants of a grammar 
school. He must be acquainted with the polity and doctrines of 
the Evangelical Association and cordially approve and believe 
them and endeavor to exemplify them. 

2. He must be willing to receive his education and training 
for the ministry in our schools in Naperville, 111, 

3. He must solemnly pledge himself to give the Conference 
faithful service as a mark of appreciation for aid received, as long 
as health permits, at least until the borrowed money is refunded. 

366 



STUDENT AID FUND 

SECTION VII — AMENDING BY-LAWS 

These By-Laws can only be changed or amended by a two- 
third vote of an Annual Conference, notice thereof having been 
given on the first day of the session. 

APPLICATION BLANK FOR AID FROM THE STUDENT AID SOCIETY OF 
THE INDIANA CONFERENCE, EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION 

{Blanks Must Be Filled in the Hanchvriting of the Applicant.) 

1. Name in full .Age Address. 

2. Of what church are you a member? 

Of what charge ? In what Conference ? 

How long? , 

3. Are you a member of a Sunday-school? Of the Young 

People's Alliance or some other young people's movement?. . . . 

4. Are you acquainted with the polity and doctrines of the Evan- 
gelical Association ? .... Do you believe and approve them ? . . . . 
Will you endeavor to exemplify and defend them? 

5. Have you passed a satisfactory examination in the course of 

study for applicants to the Christian ministry? 

(A certified copy of the grades in each study from, the secre- 
tary of the Board of Examination of the Conference is re- 
quired.) 

6. Where do you purpose going to school? 

And do you wish to pursue a collegiate or theological 
course? 

7. What are your financial resources? 

And are you willing to help yourself as far as it is possible?. . . 

8. Will you solemnly pledge yourself to give the Indiana Confer- 
ence of the Evangelical Association from five to ten years of 
faithful service for financial aid received, according to amount 
received? 

9. Will you pledge yourself to pay back the sum loaned you from 
the time of your final graduation at the rate of not less than 
ten dollars annually and interest not to exceed 6 per cent.?. . . 
(Remember that if you pay it all back within six years only 1 
per cent, will be charged you.) 

10. Will you solemnly take these moral obligations upon yourself 
and make them binding upon yourself, then sign your full 
name here as evidence to the correctness of the foregoing ques- 
tions, and willingness to subscribe to the aforesaid pledges. . . 

Name Date 

Address 

367 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF CLASS-LEADER, PASTOR AND PRESIDING 

ELDER 

We, the undersigned, hereby certify that we know the above 
named appHcant for aid from the Student Aid Society of the In- 
diana Conference of the Evangelical Association, that we believe 
him to be honest, studious, industrious, clean and frugal in habits 
of life, and that he is a member in good standing in the church with 
which he is identified. 

Class-Leader 

Pastor 

Presiding Elder 

Conference Charge 

(Drafted by S. H. Baumgartner, with some chauges made by the commit- 
tee and theu ratified by Conference). 

A goodly number of worthy subscriptions were given by the 
ministers present, and with the money on hand, a fair beginning 
w^as m.ade. Many large and small gifts are greatly needed for this 
worthy cause. 

The following trustees for the Conference Student Aid Fund 
were elected : F. L. Snyder, G. B. Kimmel, J. H. Breish, for three 
years; C. E. Boyer, Thos. Finkbeiner, for two years; J. H. Rilling 
and G. W. Frederick, for one year. 

F. L. Snyder was elected president, J. H. Rilling, secretary. 



The Formation of the Michigan Conference. 

When it became evident that the Michigan Conference would 
be formed from that part of the Indiana Conference that lay in the 
extreme north, the Indiana Conference, at its session in 1863, 
passed a resolution that the State line between Indiana and Michi- 
gan shall constitute the boundary of the new Conference on the 
south. However, when the Michigan Conference was formed in 
1864, the Indiana Conference yielded this point and surrendered 
to the new Conference some of its best fields in Lagrange and 
Steuben Counties. 

The new Conference embodied Berrien, St. Joseph, Lima Cir- 
cuits, and Kalamazoo and Ionia Missions, with a membership of 
400, A. Nicolai, R. Riegel and M. Krueger were elected as can- 
didates for the Presiding Eldership of the Michigan Conference. 
A. Nicolai was elected as the first Presiding Elder of this new 
Conference. The following brethren voluntarily united with this 

368 



FORMATION SOUTH INDIANA CONF., REINCORPORATION 

Conference, upon condition that their citizenship rights be con- 
tinued in Indiana, and that, if desired, they be allowed to return 
to the Indiana in the space of four years. The hand of blessing 
ever rested upon this newly formed Conference. 

The General Conference in 1911 ordered that Paradise and 
Trout Creek classes, lying in the southern part of Michigan, be 
ceded to the Indiana Conference. These two classes were added 
to Elkhart, Bethel, charge. 



Formation of the South Indiana Conference and 
its Re-incorporation. 

There was a growing opinion that it would be to the very 
best advantage if the Indiana Conference would be divided, and 
the southern part constitute a Conference by itself. In 1867 a 
strenuous effort was put forth to effect this division, but it failed 
to carry. However, the General Conference, held at Philadelphia, 
Pa., in October, 1875, ordered that the Indiana Conference should 
be divided into two Conferences. This was done because of the ex- 
tensiveness of the Conference. It was declared that the two south- 
ern districts, namely, Evansville and Olney, shall constitute the 
new Conference territory, which was christened the "South In- 
diana Conference." According to the General Conference action, 
the division was effected at the annual session of the Indiana Con- 
ference, which convened Sept. 14, 1876, in the town of Bremen, 
Marshall Co., Ind. The newly formed Conference began with a 
membership of 1,776, and covered an extensive territory, from 
Cincinnati, Ohio, west to St. Louis, Mo., 400 miles, and from Mar- 
shall, 111., south to Murphysboro, 111., about 170 miles. Later many 
intervening points were added, and also a fruitless mission was 
established in Cairo, 111., and one in Mattoon, 111. This fact shows 
that there was considerable missionary enthusiasm and a spirit of 
territorial expansion manifested from the beginning. Faith and 
attempts were often greater in those days than possessed strength 
and adequate ability. Some of the Western outposts, as St. Louis, 
Sandoval, Vandalia, Lake Creek, and Mattoon and Clarksville to 
the north, and Cairo to the south, and Cincinnati, Harrison and 
Covington, Ky., to the east, and intervening points, had to be 
abandoned. Lack of proper men and inadequate missionary funds 
necessitated retrenchments, also in some places disinterestedness 
of the people in those abandoned places. 

Bishop Thomas Bowman, chairman of the Indiana Confer- 

369 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

ence, ascertained who the ministers are that would travel within 
the bounds of the new South Indiana Conference, and would be- 
come its charter members. Those who were ready to unite with 
the new Conference signified it by arising. The following named 
men were recorded as charter members: John Fuchs and H, L. 
Fisher, who were then Presiding Elders of Olney and Evansville 
Districts, respectively; Melchior Mayer, Math. Klaiber, J. A. 
Maier, Chr. Wessling, J. M. Kronmiller, H. Schleucher, Martin 
Speck, Chr. Stier, N. J. Platz, John Kaufman, C. Stockhovv^e, C 
F. Matheis, W. G. Braeckly, M. Koehl, Jacob Mode, Geo. Berstecher 
and J. C. Young. 

Of these charter members, Fisher, Mayer, Klaiber, Wessling^ 
Kronmiller, Koehl, Mode, Braeckly, Maier and Platz are deceased. 
Those who have retired from active service are Fuchs, Speck, 
Stier, Kaufman, Matheis and Schleucher. Berstecher and Young- 
are members of the Erie Conference, and Stockhowe is still in the 
active service in the Illinois Conference of the United Evangelical 
Church, of which also Fuchs, Speck and Matheis are members. 

The organization of the South Indiana Conference took place 
Sept. 15, 1876, in Bremen, Ind., at 2 P. M., in Rinkel's Hall, under 
the chairmanship of the Senior Bishop, J. J. Esher of Chicago, IlL 
After the usual devotional opening exercises, the Bishop gave an 
earnest address, emphasizing particularly the momentous import- 
ance of organizing a new Conference. He asserted that the work 
of the Conference is the conversion of souls, the building up of 
God's kingdom, and that this can only be accomplished by entire 
consecration and oneness of its members. After the address, the 
Bishop appointed W. G. Braeckly as first secretary of the Confer- 
ence, in which capacity he served very successfully from 1876 to 
1886 inclusive, and also in 1888. His successor was G. M. Hall- 
wachs, who served in 1887 in the spring and fall sessions and from' 
1889 to the end in 1892. 

The Conference was incorporated under the laws of the State 
of Indiana. At the first session the Conference organized a Mis- 
sionary Society, auxiliary to the General Missionary Society of the 
Evangelical Association. Also a Sunday-School and Tract Union 
Society was organized. In 1887, at the spring Conference session, 
a Church Building Society was organized, with W. G. Braeckly 
as president, E. J. Nitsche as secretary, and C. Stockhowe as treas- 
urer. The first treasurer of the Conference was Melchior Mayer, 
who served from 1876 to 1886. He was succeeded by W. L. Lueh- 
ring, who served from 1887 to 1888. After him came F. Theiss, 
from 1889 to 1892. 

370 



FORMATION SOUTH INDIANA CONF., REINCORPORATION 

THE ANNUAL SESSIONS OF THE SOUTH INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1876, Sept. 15, Bremen, Ind Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1877, Sept. 6, Huntingburg, Ind.. Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1878, March 14, Carmi, 111. .Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1879, March 20, Tabor, Ind Bishop R. Dubs, President 

1880, March 11, Zion, Louisville, Ky 

Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1881, March 31, West Salem, 111 

Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1882, March 31, Huntingburg, Ind. Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1883, March 22, Evansville, Ind Bishop R. Dubs, President 

1884, March 20, Jonesboro, 111 

Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1885, March 19, Carmi, 111 Bishop R. Dubs. President 

1886, March 11, Mt. Carmel, 111... Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1887, March 17, Huntingburg, Ind 

Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1887, Oct. 20, 1887, Enterprise, 111. .Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1888, Sept. 20, Carmi, 111 Bishop R. Dubs, President 

1889, Sept. 19, Marshall, 111 Bishop J. J. Esher, President 

1890, Sept. 18, Olney, 111. ,. .Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1891, Sept. 10, Mt. Carmel, 111 

Bishop Thomas Bowman, President 

1892, Sept. 8, Huntingburg, Ind. .Bishop Wm. Horn, President 

PRESIDING ELDERS AND TIME OF SERVICE 

John Fuchs, eight years; H. L. Fisher, five years (died in 
office) ; John Kaufman, was elected for two years as successor to 
Fisher, deceased, and served in all twelve years; F. Schweitzer, 
four years; H. Schleucher, four and one-half years. The latter 
was elected the first time for only three years, and his second 
term ended with one and one-half years when the Conference 
ceased to exist. 

LICENSED AS PREACHERS ON PROBATION 

Frederick Dauner and W. L. Luehring, September, 1877 ; Geo. 
M. Hallwachs, Frederick Theis, March, 1880; Gerhardt Koch, 
March, 1883 ; John Mundorf, March, 1884 ; Casper Doering, March, 
1885; Andrew N. Fox, September, 1888; G. F. Winter, J. H. 
Griesemer and B. Schuermeier, September, 1889. 

371 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

deacons' orders voted as follows: 

To Christian Stier, 1877 ; to M. F. Finkbeiner, 1878 ; to W. L. 
Luehring and Ernst Bohlander, 1880 ; to G. M. Hallwachs and F. 
Theis, 1883; to E. J. Nitsche, 1884; to Fred. Daimer, John Mun- 
dorf and J. H. Schnitz, 1887, and Gerh. Koch, 1889. 

received into the itinerancy 

Christian Stier, 1877 ; M. F. Finkbeiner and W. L. Luehring, 
1878; M. Koehl and H. Haas, 1879; G. M. Hallwachs and F. Theis, 
1882 ; E. J. Nitsche, 1883 ; Jacob Mode and John Mundorf , 1886 ; 
Gerh. Koch, 1889 ; C. Kohlmeyer, 1890. 

advanced to elders' orders 

Geo. Berstecher, 1877; Jacob Mode and N. J. Platz, 1879; 
Christian Stier, 1880; W. L. Luehring and E. Bohlander, 1882; 
G. M. Hallwachs and Fred. Theis, 1885 ; E. J. Nitsche, 1886 ; John 
Mundorf and J. H. Schnitz, 1889. 

delegates to general conference 

John Fuchs and H. L. Fisher in 1879 ; John Fuchs and John 
Kaufman in 1883; John Kaufman and Enos Troyer in 1887; John 
Kaufman and H. Schleucher in 1891. 

trustees elected for north-western college and 
union biblical institute 

John Fuchs in 1876 and 1879; John Kaufman, 1882; W. G. 
Braeckly, 1885 (served two years) ; John Kaufman, again in 1887 
and 1890. 

DEATHS REPORTED 

H. L. Fisher, 1880 ; Jacob Mode, 1887 ; M. Mayer, 1888. 

SOME STATISTICS DURING THE YEARS OF EXISTENCE OF THE 

CONFERENCE 

Converted: 206, 156, 197, 231, 156, 215, 152, 205, 207, 84, 204, 
22, 163, 216, 104. 118. Total, 2,636. 

Newly Received: 212, 198, 233, 293, 227, 303, 210, 218, 258, 
127, 219, 41, 216, 239, 199, 154. Total, 3,347. 

Membership: 1,776, 1,794, 1,896, 2,046, 2,145, 2,250, 2,293, 
2,329, 2,399, 2,367, 2,374, 2,322, 2,384, 2,454, 2,348, 2,308. Net 
gain, 532. 

372 



FORMATION SOUTH INDIANA CONF., REINCORPORATION 

Collected for Conference Mission Work: $1,627.09, $2,205.86, 
$2,227.67, $1,753.97, $1,818.94. $1,704.81, $2,505.13, $2,381.35, 
$1,930.06, $1,940.97, $2,115.24, $1,673.72, $2,153.24, $1,353.13, 
$1,184.12, $1,323.19. Total for sixteen years, $29,898.49. One 
soul saved for everj'- $11.34 missionary money contributed. 

Schedule for Preachers' Salaries adopted in 1876 : Married, 
$450.00 and $33.00 for each child under fourteen years ; single, 
ordained, $250.00 ; probationers, $200.00 ; Presiding Elders, 
$800.00, with an additional $33.00 for each child under fourteen 
years. In addition each minister was allowed traveling and mov- 
ing expenses and a free parsonage. Total salary paid in sixteen 
years, $144,668.32; average per year, $9,041.75; average per min- 
ister, $418.60. A new schedule of salaries was adopted in 1883 
and 1884, which meant a slight increase of salary. 

SOME FACTS ABOUT MISSIONARY FIELDS 

1876, St. Louis and Louisville Missions were left unsupplied, 
and the next year St. Louis was abandoned. Stewartsville was 
taken from Warrington Circuit and made a separate mission. Cin- 
cinnati Mission was ordered to be relocated. 1877, Conference 
sessions were changed from fall to spring. Stewartsville Mission 
was discontinued and, with Grayville, added to Salem charge on 
Olney District. Enterprise and vicinity was taken up as a mis- 
sion. 1878, Sandoval and vicinity was taken up as Sandoval Mis- 
sion. Stewartsville and Grayville were taken from Salem and 
added to Carmi. Harrison in Hamilton Co., Ohio, and vicinity was 
taken up as a mission. Enterprise Mission was added to Carmi. 

1879, no new missions formed ; only a few changes in boundaries. 

1880, Jackson Mission in Missouri was taken up. Harrison Mis- 
sion was discontinued. Vandalia Circuit was changed to a mis- 
sion. 1881, a few changes were made in boundary lines, and 
Terre Haute was taken up as a mission ; Jackson Mission in Mis- 
souri was discontinued. 1882, no report. 1883, two transfers of 
fields to another district. 1884, Evansville was made a station. 
1885, Mattoon, 111., was taken up as a mission. It was resolved 
that if the prospects seem to be favorable the missionary of Cin- 
cinnati shall take up Covington, Ky., as a mission field. 1886, no 
report. 1887, Sandoval Mission was discontinued. Covington, 
Ky., and vicinity was taken up as a mission. 1887, now again a 
fall Conference. Evansville was again made a mission. 1888, 
Owensboro was taken up as a mission conjointly with Rockport. 
1889, the west portion of Louisville was taken up as a mission. 

373 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Owensboro and Rockport Mission was separated into two mis- 
sions. Jonesboro Mission was made a circuit. 1890, only bound- 
ary changes were made. 1891, a few fields were changed into new 
missions by changing boundary lines. It seems the new missions 
in new localities were all failures excepting Terre Haute, which 
also had serious difficulties to encounter. 

SOME MISCELLANEOUS FACTS OF INTEREST 

At the time of the division of the Indiana Conference, the 
mother Conference gave her newly born daughter on her earthly 
journey, as an act of Godspeed and good will, the respectable sum 
of $1,800.00 to launch her missionary activities. The new Con- 
ference also assumed $1,800.00 as her share of the Conference 
debt. 

In the session held in September, 1877, this Conference en- 
tered into the compact of North-Western College and Union Bibli- 
cal Institute, and took an active interest in these educational in- 
stitutions, and always in her succeeding sessions maintained that 
the intellectual training and the culture of heart of the young peo- 
ple is an urgent necessity, because education is one of the chief 
means of winning them for God and the church, and to make 
them useful citizens of our land. This Conference believed, also, 
that the sooner the Gospel truths are inculcated intelligently, and 
a general acquaintance with the studies relating to literature, phil- 
osophy and sciences are properly understood and made subservient 
to the Gospel of Christ, the better for the young people and the 
church ; hence the necessity of training and culturing of mind and 
heart in their formative period, when the religious and social life 
is much more readily influenced and developed. It was especially 
impressed upon the hearts and minds of parents that they should 
bring up their children in the fear of God and avail themselves 
early of the educational opportunities in the church for the benefit 
of their children. 

Much stress was also laid upon the careful establishment of 
religious homes, as the basis of prosperity and healthful develop- 
ment of the churches ; the need of sending the children to catechet- 
ical instructions and to Sunday-schools. Their vote on a General 
Conference recommendation relative to secret orders was 22 against 
and none for them. So also the vote on the recommendation of 
remarriage of divorced persons stood 22 for and none against. 

A very timely resolution was also adopted in 1879, criticis- 
ing severely the National Congress for holding sessions on the 

374 



FORMATION SOUTH INDIANA CONF., REINCORPORATION 

Lord's Day, and agreed that no candidate for Representative in 
•Congress should be voted for who does not obey the law of God 
respecting the Christian Sabbath. This attitude and protest was 
in perfect order and should still receive the stamp of hearty dis- 
approval from religious bodies. 

At the session of 1881 it was reported that the Louisville 
Mission property was sold for $3,200.00, of which $1,500.00 was 
cash. Louisville Station received $500.00 of it toward erecting 
its parsonage. There being a deficit in the salaries of some men, 
it was ordered that half of the deficit shall be paid out of the 
Publishing House dividend, which is mentioned by the secretary 
■as a Conference liberality which might have the most serious re- 
sults for preachers and congregations. 

The two Presiding Elders, J. Fuchs and H. L. Fisher, and C. 
Wessling and W. G. Braeckly, were appointed a historical commit- 
tee to gather historical facts for the second volume of the Church 
History of the Evangelical Association. In 1882 W. G. Braeckly 
was appointed as representative of the Conference to attend the 
final examinations and graduating exercises at North-Western 
College. 

In 1883 the Conference had a church debt of $3,436.91. This 
Conference adopted favorable resolutions relative to the work of 
the Woman's Missionary Society in the church and believed the 
time had come for such an organization. Strong resolutions were 
also adopted relative to abolition of intemperance, which was 
.stated as a very great, if not the greatest, evil in our land. The 
temperance question and its enforcement was much needed in 
some quarters of these districts. 

From 1884 to 1889 the Conference sessions were greatly dis- 
turbed by internal conflicts that required long and tedious investi- 
gations, and worked disastrous results from which the territory 
has not yet fully recovered. 

At the session of 1885 the members of the South Indiana Con- 
ference sent a resolution to the Indiana Conference, urging the 
reincorporation of their Conference with the original mother Con- 
ference, believing that this would be for the general good and in- 
crease of the work of the Lord in both Conferences, that the diffi- 
culty in stationing the preachers properly could be largely over- 
come, and that it would have the endorsement of the church socie- 
ties. To this solicitation the Indiana Conference replied as follows 
in 1886, after having acknow^ledged the receipt of the inquiry of 
the South Indiana Conference relative to the feasibility of reunit- 
ing the two Conferences: "In lieu of the fact that the matter of 

375 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

reincorporating the South Indiana Conference with the Indiana 
Conference belongs to the General Conference transaction, and 
because of its importance and connected circumstances, it was 
thought best for the present to remain separate, but we will give 
the matter further consideration, and if it seems feasible and de- 
sirable on both sides, then take the necessary introductory steps 
to present the matter to the next General Conference." Upon this 
friendly reply from the Indiana Conference, the South Indiana 
Conference, at its session in 1887, again urged the reincorpora- 
tion, reiterating their former reasons for so doing, reasserting the 
conviction that it would be for the best of both Conferences, and 
expressing the fond hope that the Indiana Conference would give 
this matter the most favorable consideration. 

At the General Conference, held in Indianapolis, Ind., Octo- 
ber, 1891, the matter of reincorporating the South Indiana Con- 
ference with the Indiana Conference was presented by the South 
Indiana Conference for favorable consideration. Without oppo- 
sition from the delegates of the Indiana Conference, the General 
Conference ordered the reincorporation as desired, which reincor- 
poration took place at the Indiana Conference, held April, 1893, in 
Dayton, Ohio. The statistics show that during the years of sep- 
arate work the South Indiana Conference had made a net gain of 
532 members. 



376 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




7>LN0WDECEASED. r. 



377 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 




BISHOP THOMAS BOWMAN 



BISHOP S. C. BREYFOGEL 




BISHOP WM. HORN 



378 



BISHOP S. P. SPRENG 



TABLET OF CONFERENCES 



CALENDAR OF TIME AND PLACE OF CONFERENCE SESSIONS WITH PRESIDING OFFICERS 

AND SECRETARIES 



6 


Years and 
Dates. 


Place of Sessions. 


Presiding 
Bishop. 


Secretaries. 


Assistant Secretaries. 





1852, June 


10 


Naperville, Illinois. 


John Seybert. 


J. 


J. Esher 


C. 


A. Schnacke. 


1 


1853 


June 


1 


E. Germantown, Ind. 


Jos. Long. 


A. 


Nicolai. 


S. 


Dickover. 


2 


1854 


May 


31 


E. Germantown, Ind. 


John Seybert. 


A. 


Nicolai. 


S. 


Dickover. 


3 


1855 


May 


30 


Ott's, Elk Co., Indiana. 


John Seybert. 


A. 


Nicolai. 


S. 


Dickover. 


4 


1856 
1857 


June 

Sept. 


4 
23 


Mt. Carmel, Illinois. 
E. Germantown, Ind. 


Jos. Long. 
John Seybert. 


A. 

A. 


Nicolai. 

B. Schafer. 






5 


•i." 


Keiper. 


6 


1858 


Sept. 


8 


Coal Bush, Indiana. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Hoehn. 


M. 


W. Steffey. 


7 


1859 


Sept. 


7 


Indianapolis, Indiana. 


John Seybert. 


i\I 


Hoehn. 


M. 


W. Steffey. 


8 


1800 


Sept. 


5 


Dayton, Ohio. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Hoehn. 


M. 


Mayer. 


9 


1861 


Sept. 


IS 


Indianapolis, Indiana. 


W. W. Orwig. 


G. 


G. Platz. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


10 


1862 


Sept. 


17 


E. Germantown, Ind. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Mayer. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


11 


1863 


Sept. 


9 


Marshall, Illinois. 


W. W. Orwig. 


M 


Hoehn. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


12 


1864 


Sept. 


8 


Indianapolis, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


M 


Ma\er. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


13 


1865 


Sept. 


14 


South Bend, Indiana. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Mayer. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


14 


1866 


Sept. 


13 


Evansville, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


iM 


Mayer. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


15 


1867 


Sept. 


5 


Dayton, Ohio. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Mayer. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


16 


18GS 


Sept. 


10 


South Bend, Indiana. 


Jos. Long. 


M 


Hoehn. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


17 


1SG9 


Sept. 


9 


Olney, Illinois. 


J. J. Esher. 


M 


Klaiber. 


C. 


Wessling. 


18 


1870 


Sept. 


8 


Indianapolis, Indinaa. 


J. J. Esher. 


M 


Hoehn. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


19 


1871 


Sept. 


7 


Louisville, Kentucky. 


J. J. Esher. 


J. 


Berger. 


J. 


Miller. 


20 


1872 


Sept. 


12 


Elkhart, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


J. 


Berger. 


M. 


Klaiber. 


21 


1873 


Sept. 


11 


E. Germantown. Ind. 


J. J. Esher. 


J. 


Berger. 


J. 


A. Mayer. 


22 


1874 


Sept. 


10 


Noblesville, Indiana. 


R. Yeakel. 


M 


Hoehn. 


J. 


A. Mayer. 


23 


1875 


Sept. 


2 


Mt. Carmel, Illinois. 


J. J. Esher. 


M. 


Hoehn. 


J. 


A. Maver. 


24 


1876 


Sept. 


11 


Bremen, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


C. 


C. Beyrer. 


I). 


S. Oakes. 


25 


1877 


Sept. 


20 


Linn Grove, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


C. 


C. Baumgartner. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


26 


1878 


Apr. 


18 


Urbana, Indiana. 


R. Dubs. 


c. 


C. Baumgartner. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


27 


1879 


Apr. 


17 


Bremen, Indiana. 


R. Yeakel. 


c. 


C. Baumgartner. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


28 


1880 


Apr. 


1 


Indianapolis, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


C. 


C. Beyrer. 


29 


1881 


Apr. 


7 


Elk., Watchtower, Ind. 


T. Bownnan. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


H. 


Arlen. 


30 


1882 


Apr. 


6 


Waterloo, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


H. 


Arlen. 


31 


1883 


Mar. 


29 


E. Germantown, Ind. 


R. Dubs. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


H. 


Arlen. 


32 


1884 


Mar. 


27 


Rochester, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


H. 


Arlen. 


33 


1885 


Mar. 


26 


South Bend, Indiana. 


R. Dubs. 


H. 


Arlen. 


D. 


S. Oakes. 


34 


1SS6 


Apr. 


1 


Dayton, Ohio. 


T. Bowman. 


H. 


Arlen. 


C. 


C. Beyrer. 


35 


1887 


Mar. 


31 


Rochester, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


H. 


Arlen. 


c. 


C. Beyrer. 


36 


1S8S 


Apr. 


5 


Decatur, Indiana. 


R. Dubs. 


C. 


C. Beyrer. 


H. 


Arlen. 


37 


1S89 


Apr. 


4 


Elk., Div. St., Ind. 


J. J. Esher. 


c. 


C. Bevrer. 


S. 


H. Baumgartner. 


38 


1890 


Mar. 


27 


Portland, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


c. 


C. Beyrer. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


39 


1891 


Mar. 


26 


Bremen, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


Geo. Roederer. 


40 


1892 


Apr. 


7 


N. Paris, Indiana. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


Geo. Roederer, J. M. Dustman. 


41 


1S93 


Apr. 


6 


Davton, Com. St., 0. 


T. Bowman. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


G. 


M. Hallwachs, J. M. Dustman. 


42 


1S94 


Apr. 


5 Indianapolis, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


J. 


H. Evans, G. M. Hallwachs. 


43 


1895 


Apr. 


4 


Elk., Watchtower, Ind. 


J. J. Esher. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


J. 


H. Evans, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


44 


1896 


Apr. 


2 


Urbana, Indiana. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


M. 


L. Scheidler, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


45 


1897 


Apr. 


1 


Wabash, Indiana. 


J. J. Esher. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


T. 


Finkbeiiier, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


46 


1S9S 


Apr. 


4 


Louisville, Kentucky. 


Win. Horn. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


47 


1899 


Apr. 


3 


Rochester, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


s. 


H. Baumgartner. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


48 


1900 


Apr. 


2 


Dayton, Ohio. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


49 


19111 


Apr. 


11 


Berne, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


50 


1902 


Apr. 


10 South Bend, First Ch. 


T. Bowman. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


51 


1903 


Apr. 


2 Indianapolis, Indiana. 


Wm. Horn. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


52 


1904 


Apr. 


7 Bremen, Indiana. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


T. 


Finkbeiner, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


53 


1905 


Apr. 


6 


Rochester, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


54 


1906 


Apr. 


5 


West Salem, Illinois. 


Wm. Horn. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


55 


1907 


Apr. 


4 


Ft. W^ayne, Indiana. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, L. J. Ehrhardt. 


56 


1908 


Apr. 


2 


Huntingbur^, Indiana. 


Wm. Horn. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, S. H. Baumgartner. 


57 


1909 


Apr. 


7 


Elkhart, Indiana. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


58 


1910 


Apr. 


7 


Wabash, Indiana. 


S. P. Spreng. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


59 


1911 


Apr. 


6 


Berne, Indiana. 


T. Bow-man. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


60 


1912 


.\pr. 


4 


Davton, Ohio. 


S. C. Breyfogel. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


61 


1913 


.\pr. 


2 


Indianapolis, Indiana. 


Wm. Horn. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


E. 


Q. Laudeman, A. G. Stierli. 


62 


1914 


Apr. 


1 


Linn Grove, Indiana. 


S. P. Spreng. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


63 


1915 


Apr. 


7 


Kendallville, Indiana. 


T. Bowman. 


J. 


H. Evans. 


A. 


B. Haist, A. G. Stierli. 


64 


1916 


Apr. 


5 


Huntingburg, Indiana. 



























379 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



C^onference Officers since 1852. 

VICE-PRESIDENTS 

A. B. Schafer, 1862-3 ; Jos. Fisher, 1864 ; M. W. Steffey, 1865- 
68; John Fox, 1869; G. G. Platz, 1870; J. M. Corner, 1871; M. W. 
StefFey, 1872-75; Jos. Fisher, 1876; M. W. Steffey, 1877; E. L. 
Kipling-er, 1878-79; M. W. Steffey, 1880-3; Jos. Fisher, 1884-93; 
J. M. Haug-, 1894-6; D. S. Oakes, 1897-07; J. Kaufman, 1908-12; 
Aug. Geist, 1913-15. 

SECRETARIES 

J. J. Esher, 1852 ; A. Nicolai, 1853-6 ; A. B. Schafer, 1857 ; M. 
Hoehn, 1858-60; G. G. Platz, 1861; Mel. Mayer, 1862: M. Hoehn, 
1863; Mel. Mayer, 1864-67; M. Hoehn, 1868; M. Klaiber, 1869; 
M. Hoehn, 1870; John Berger, 1871-3; M. Hoehn, 1874-5; C. C. 
Beyrer, 1876; C. C. Baumgartner, 1877-9; D. S. Oakes, 1880-4; H. 
Allen, 1885-7; C. C. Beyrer, 1888-90; S. H. Baumgartner, 1891-9; 
J. H. Evans, 1900-15. 

TREASURERS 

G. G. Platz, 1862-3 ; M. Hoehn, 1864-73 ; J. M. Comer, 1874-9 ; 
C. F. Hansing, 1880-81; C. C. Beyrer, 1882-4; Aug. Geist, 1885-96; 
F. E. Zechiel, 1897-9; A. S. Fisher, 1900-12; J. 0. Mosier, 1913-15. 

STATISTICAL SECRETARIES 

The first Committee on Statistics was appointed in the ses- 
sion held in 1862. The office of statistician began about 1888. In 
1862, John Fox; 1863, M. Krueger; 1864-6, J. M. Gomer; 1867, 
E. L. Kiplinger; 1868-9, J. M. Gomer; 1870, M. W. Steffey; ]871, 
Geo. A. Hertel; 1872-3, M. Klaiber; 1874, J. M. Gomer; 1875, D. S. 
Oakes; 1876, W. G. Braeckly; 1877-9, J. M. Gomer; 1880, C. F. 
Hansing; 1881, Aug. Geist; 1882-3, C. C. Beyrer: 1884-5, Aug. 
Geist; 1886, S. B. Kring; 1887-90, A. O. Raber; 1891-99, A. S. 
Fisher; 1900-04, A. B. Haist ; 1905-07, C. D. Rarey; 1908-10, E. Q. 
Laudeman; 1911-1915, W. H. Freshley. 

EDITORS AND PUBLISFIERS OF CONFERENCE JOURNALS SINCE 1891 



Editors 

1891- 4, S. H. Baumgartner 

1895- 6, Fred Rausch 

1897- 9, M. L. Scheidler 

1900- 3, J. H. Evans 

1904- 6, J. H. Rilling 

1907-11, D. D. Spangler 

1912-15, C. A. Hirschman 



PublisJiers 
1891- 2, S. H. Baumgartner 
1893- 9, M. L. Scheidler 
1900- 3, Thorn. Finkbeiner 
1904, O. L. Mai kman 
1905- 6, J. H. Rilling 
1907-11, D. D. Spangler 
1912-15, Carl Hirschman 



380 



CONFERENCE OFFICERS SINCE 1852 

CONFERENCE TRUSTEE BOARDS 

The Conference Board of Trustees is elected as a whole for 
a term of thiee years, and trustees are eligible for re-election. 
According to an additional article, which was added to the "Arti- 
cles of Incorporation," the first Board was elected in 1894. 

The following Boards served : 

1894— D. S. Oakes, J. M. Haug, D. Martz, C. F. Hansing, Aug. 

Geist. 

D. S. Oakes resigned in 1895, and J. H. Evans was elected 

to fill the vacancy. 
1897— J. H. Evans, D. Martz, D. S. Oakes, Aug. Geist, C. F. 

Hansing. 
1900— C. F. Hansing, S. H. Baumgartner, J. H. Evans, A. S. 

Fisher, D. Martz. 
1903 — J. H. Evans, S. H. Baumgartner, C. F. Hansing, A. S. 

Fisher, L. Newman. 
1906— L. Newman, L. S. Fisher, A. S. Fisher, D. Martz, S. H. 

Baumgartner. 
1909— L. Newman, L. S. Fisher, A. S. Fisher, J. O. Mosier, E. M. 

Ray. 
1912— L. Newman, E. M. Ray, L. S. Fisher, J. W. Metzner, J. 0. 

Mosier, 

L, S. Fisher resigned in 1914, and J. J. Wise was elected to 

fill the vacancy. 
1915— J. 0. Mosier, E. M. Ray, J. W. Metzner, J. J. Wise, L. 

Newman. 



Delegates to General Conference since 1852. 

1855 — S. Dickover, Geo. G. Platz, Jos. Fisher, Jacob Keiper and 
And. Nicolai. 
Alternates : Chr. Glaus and Phil, Bretsch. 
1859— Abr. B. Schafer, Geo. G. Platz, Jos. Fisher, M. W, Steffey, 
Phil, Bretsch. 
No alternates, 
1868— M, W, Steftey, Geo, G, Platz, M, Hoehn, A. B, Schafer, Jos. 
Fisher, John Fox, 
Alternates : And, Nicolai and Fr, Wiethaup, 
1867— M, Krueger, M, W, Steffey, Mel, Mayer, G, G, Platz, M, 
Hoehn, A. B, Schafer, Joh, Fox, 
Alternates: Jos. Fisher, H. L. Fisher, 

381 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1871— M. W. Steffey, Joh. Fox, M. Mayer, H. L. Fisher, M. Krue- 
ger, Eli L. Kiplinger. 
Alternates: J. M. Corner, M. Hoehn. 

1875— M. W. Steffey, H. L. Fisher, M. Krueger, E. L. Kiplinger, 
John Fox, J. Kaufman, M. Mayer. 
Alternates : 

1879— M. W. Steffey, Eli L. Kiplinger, M. Krueger. 
Alternates : 

1883— E. L. Kiplinger, C. C. Baumgartner, D. S. Oakes, M. W. 
Steffey. 
Alternates : 

1887— M. W. Steffey, D. S. Oakes, Aug. Geist, C. C. Baumgartner. 
Alternates : C. F. Hansing, D. Martz. 

1891— D. S. Oakes, D. Martz, H. Arlen, M. W. Steffey. 
Alternates: Aug. Geist, C. F. Hansing. 

1895— D. Martz, C. F. Hansing, J. M. Haug, D. S. Oakes, J. H. 
Evans, S. H. Baumgartner. 
Alternates: Aug. Geist, A. S. Fisher, J. Kaufman. 

1899 — S. H. Baumgartner, C. F. Hansing, D. S. Oakes, D. Martz, 
J. H. Evans, Geo. Roederer. 
Alternates: A. S. Fisher, J. M. Haug, M. L. Scheidler, F. 
E. Zechiel. 
1903— S. H. Baumgartner, J. M. Haug, D. S. Oakes, C. F. Han- 
sing, J. H. Evans, A. S. Fisher, Aug. Geist. 
Alternates: F. Rausch, M, L. Scheidler, W. G. Braeckly. 
1907— L. S. Fisher, S. H. Baumgartner, J. O. Mosier, D. Martz, 
D. D. Speicher, J. H. Evans, J. H. Breisch. 
Alternates — W. G. Braeckly, M. L. Scheidler, A. S. Fisher. 
1911— J. O. Mosier, J. W. Metzner, S. H. Baumgartner, J. J. Wise, 
L. S. Fisher, J. H. Breisch, J. H. Evans, W. G. Braeck- 
ley. 
Alternates: G. B. Kimmel, M. L. Scheidler, L. Newman. 
Lay Delegates: Geo. W. Frederick, Chas. Braitling, Ezra 
Kimmel, F. H. Hersh. 
1915— J. J. Wise, J. W. Metzner, S. H. Baumgartner, J. O. Mosier, 
J. H. Evans, J. H. Breish, G. B. Kimmel, L. S. Fisher. 
Alternates: E. W. Praetorius, J. H. Rilling, L. Newman. 
Lay Delegates: C. L. Hartman, Wm. Mertz, G. W. Fred- 
erick, W. H. Ecki. 
Alternates: N. Barnheisel, F. Hersh. 

382 



OFFICERS INDIANA CONFERENCE MISSIONARY SOCIETY 

Officers of the Indiana Conference Missionary 

Society. 

PRESIDENTS 

From 1853-1875, no record found ; 1876, J. Kaufman ; 1877-9, 
Jos. Fisher; 1880-2, M. Hoehn ; 1883-6, M. W. Steffey; 1887, A. R. 
Schafer; 1888-1899, D. Martz; 1900-7, S. H. Baumgartner; 1908- 
1914, L. Newman; 1915, E. W. Praetorius. 

VICE-PRESIDENTS 

1853-1876, no record found; 1877-80, M. W. Steffey; 1881-2, 
Jos. Fisher; 1883, M. Hoehn; 1884, E. L. Kiplinger; 1885-6, Jos. 
Fisher; 1887-9, John Hoffman; 1890, A. O. Raber; 1891-3, A. 
Geist; 1894-7, F. Rausch; 1898, S. H. Baumgartner; 1899, J. M. 
Haug; 1900-04, J. H. Evans; 1905-7, L. Newman; 1908-13, G. B. 
Kimmel; 1914, E. W. Praetorius; 1915, L. Newman. 

SECRETARIES 

1853-76, no record found; 1877, C. C. Beyrer; 1878-79, J. 
Hoffman; 1880-82, C. C. Beyrer; 1883-4, H. Arlen; 1885-6. J. Hoff- 
man; 1887-89, J. Miller; 1890-97, W. H. Mygrant; 1898-1906, J, 
O. Mosier; 1907-10, J. W. Metzner; 1911-15, A. A. Knepper. 

TREASURERS 

1853-76, no record found; 1877-79, D. S. Oakes; 1880, Geo. 
Roederer; 1881-1893, D. S. Oakes; 1894-97, Geo. Roederer; 1898- 
1907, F. Rausch; 1908-11, P. L. Browns; 1912-15, J. H. Rilling. 

DELEGATES TO BOARD OF MISSIONS 

1853-76, no record found; 1876-79, E. L. Kiplinger; 1880, M. 
W. Steffey; 1881, D. S. Oakes; 1882, E. L. Kiplinger; 1883, D. S. 
Oakes; 1884, M. W. Steffey; 1885-90, D. S. Oakes; 1891-99, D. 
Martz; 1900-1, C. F. Hansing; 1902-3, S. H. Baumgartner; 1904- 
07, D. Martz; 1908-10, S. H. Baumgartner; 1911, J. J. Wise; 1912,. 
L. S. Fisher; 1913-14, J. W. Metzner; 1915, J. J. Wise. 

ALTERNATE DELEGATES TO BOARD OF MISSIONS 

1853-75, no record found ; 1876-79, M. W. Steffey ; 1880-83, no 
record; 1884, E. L. Kiplinger; 1885, M. W. Steffey; 1886, C. C. 
Baumgartner; 1887, A. Geist; 1888, J. Berger; 1889, D. Martz; 
1890, M. W. Steffey; 1891-93, D. S. Oakes; 1894, J. M. Haug; 1895- 
1899, D. S. Oakes; 1900-01, S. H. Baumgartner; 1902-3, C. F. Han- 
sing; 1904-7, S. H. Baumgartner; 1908, L. S. Fisher; 1909-14, L. 
Newman; 1915, J. W. Metzner. 

383 



LOCAL SOCIETIES, FROM WHICH OUR LICENSED 
PREACHERS CAME 



Akron Mission 

1. J. S. Kroft l!ii),; 

2. A. D. Kroft 1!HI8 

Bii'Fus Circuit 
Bcthrl Class 

1. H. Schleucher 1871 

■2. Win. Wiedenheft 1883 

3. J. H. Schnltz 1SS4 

4. E. W. Schmalzrietl ..1!)10 

Bippus Class 
1. W. H. Hiig'iitiniie 



Ll(>\d F. 



.1883 
.1011 



Breiiex Station 

1. John Berger 1864 

2. Geo. Ziliimer 1804 

3. Wash. Knobhuich 18(5!l 

4. L. Stock 187!) 

5. E. C. Ewald 1898 

6. E. Q. Laiideinan li)o:i 

7. F. B. Wahiior l!)l)l 

8. E. E. Miller IDdT) 

9. Geo. S. Lozier 1011 

10. O. 0. Lozier 1914 

Bunker Hill Circuit 
]yaupcco7i(/ Ciiss 

1. J. M. Condo 1864 

2. E. E. Condo 1866 

3. S. S. Condo 1869 



Zion Clasx 

K. Trover 1 

J. Trover 1 

K. Trover 1 

T. Hochstetler 1 

W. Loop 1 

S. Fisher 1 

W. Fisher 1 

M. Lantz 1 



867 
868 
868 
869 
873 
887 
888 
903 



Camp Creek Circuit, Illinois 
1. Phil. Miller 1S66 

C'ARMi Circuit^ Illinois 
Carmi Class 

1. Chr. Ude 1857 

5. J. M. Gomer 1850 

3. Martin Speck 1860 

4. John Beck 1864 

5. Jos. A. Maior 1866 

Celina Circuit 
Ilapr Clais 

1. J. II. Stedcke 1876 

2. J. E. Smith iSSn 

3. F. J. Stedcke 1894 

Salem Class 
1. J. II. Evans 1881 

Cicero Circuit 

1. J. Fritz 1874 

2. J. Harper 1880 

Tipton C/as'.s 
1. Dr. niest 

Culver Station 
1. 1). J. Pontius 



2. 


F. 


E. Zeeliiel 


..1888 


3. 


S. 


1. Zechiel 


. .1894 


4. 


D. 


E. Zechiel 


. .1805 


5. 


D. 


A. Kaley 


. .1903 



Culver Circuit 
Ilurr (Ink Class, Pis:-. 

1. II. K. Overniever ... .1870 

2. W. S. Tracy 1888 



Germany Class 

1. Jolm HoiTman 1858 

2. Fred Hoffman 1860 

3. Sam'l Plantz 1861 

4. Geo. W. Wales 1867 

5. James Wales 1868 

6. C. Overme.ver 1909 

Trinitu Class 

1. C. H. Burgener 1896 

Grand View Class 

1. Geo. C. Steininger ...1887 

2. B. Webb 1887 

3. Phil. Buehler 1888 

4. H. H. Steininger 1893 

Jerusalem Class 

1. H. E. Neff 

Letters Ford Class 

1. D. Light 1S72 

]Vasliinf;t(>n Cla-s 

1. E. B. Jones 1901 

Danville Missicn, Disc. 

1 . Jacob Funk 1867 

2. J. Dreisbach 1869 

3. Aug. Geist 1872 

4. E. D. Einsel 1873 

Dayton, Commercial 

1. Geo. Berstecher 1872 

2. J. A. Tiedt 1890 

3. E. W. Praetorius 1004 

Dayton, Wayne Ave. 

1. G. F. Soreng. Jr., O. Conf. 

2. H. E, Thompson 1S94 

3. G. B. Kimmel 1897 

4. M. W. Strahler 1900 

5. W. R. Kimmel 1914 

Decatur Mission 

1. A. Elzv 1894 

2. A. Van Camp 1897 

3. Chas. McConnelicy ...1808 

Furman Class, Disc. 

1. D. D. Spangler 1887 

2. C. W. Spangler 1892 

Salem Class 

1. J. S. Stoop 1883 

2. E. B. Kern 1801 

3. S. C. Kramer 1806 

Defiance Circuit 
Calvanj Class 

1, P. L. Browns 1803 

2. L. E. Smith 1006 

Deeiance Mission 

N. Ollre Class 

1. D. Jolly 1889 

Edgerton Circuit 
()al: Grove 

1. Ilcnrv Maier 1S61 

2. Rob. Rainev 1882 

3. G. F. Ziiber 1896 

4. S. D. Rainey 1904 

Salem Class 

1. J. S. Mever 1870 

2. E. E. Mever 1885 

3. H. E, Meyer 1886 

East (Iehmantown 
Xew Lisbon Class, Dise. 

1. Adam Hartzler 1865 

2. S. S. Albert 1865 

3. Jacob Ilmitsinger ....1872 

384 



Dublin Class 

1. S. Diekover 1846 

2. A. V. Scheidler 1868 

3. B. F. Dill 1872 

4. M. L. Scheidler 1887 

5. C. M. Pierce 1887 

6. W. E. Snyder 1894 

Elberfeld Circuit. 
TaJior Class 

1. Adolph Dassel 1862 

2. W. L. Luehring 1877 

3. S. J. Luehring 

4. II. Holzgi-afe 

5. B. Schuermeier 1889 

Sommerville Class 
1. C. Kohlmeior 1857 

Elkhart, Ger.man, Disc. 

1. C. Kerstetter 1865 

2. D. E. Fox 1883 

Elkiiakt, Watciitower, Disc. 

1. I. B. Fisher 1877 

2. Geo. B. Holdeman ...1884 

3. W. S. Mills 1893 

4. Arthur Wevrick 1897 

5. Rov Garl 1897 

6. Geo, C. Lutman 1902 

Elkhart, First Church 

1. C. E. Bover 1007 

2. M. O. Herman 1010 

3. C. Berger 1015 

Elkhart, Bethel Circuit 
Salem Class 

1. David Garl 1856 

2. D. S. Oakes 1862 

3. P. Thornton 18()2 

4. Ad. R. Schafer 1871 

Enterprise, Illinois 

1. Chr. Stier 1875 

2. H. Gocker 1893 

3. J. W. Feller 1805 

EVANSVILLE Station 
1. Jacob Miller 1866 

Ft. Wayne Station 
1. L. S. Fisher 1883 

(hiAYViLLE Mission 
1. Jac.b M(n\c 1872 

Greenville Mission 
1. Peter Roth 1S50 



2. Chas. Seliamo 

3. Wm. H. Klurk 



.1864 
.1013 



HiCRSViLLE, Ohio 

1. E. R, Roop 1000 

Huntingburg 



1. Fr. Wiethaup 

2. Wm. Bockman . . 

3. Geo. Koch 

4. W. Wesseler .... 

5. M. Krueger 

6. C. Stoekhow .... 

7. Gerh. Koeli 

8. I'"r. Reutejioehler 

9. M. W. Suuderman 

10. B. Reutepoehler . . 

11, F. S. Erne 



1847 
1853 



1855 
1856 
1871 
1 8S3 
1803 
1896 
1899 
1899 



LOCAL SOCIETIES FROM WHICH OUR PREACHERS CAME 



HUxN'TINGTON 

1. Sam. Beverly IS'Ji 

2. R. F. Jamison lSi)2 

3. D. D. Suit lS!)(i 

4. G. D. Eastes 11)07 

Meyers CUuts, Disc. 
1. J. M. Dustman 1ST4 

IXDEPEXDEXCIC, DlSC. 

1. M. Klaiber 1S5S 

Indianapolis,, First C'liuiicii 



1. W. G. Braeckley 

2. John Abrams . . . 

3. C. F. Brauer . . 

4. C. A. Hirschman 

5. H. E. Eberhart 

G. H. L. Meyer 



North Mission, Dis 
1. Geo. Streicher .... 



.1870 
.1871 
.1872 
.1906 
.1914 
.1914 



JuLiETTA, Disc. 



1. C. F. Hansing . . . 

2. C. F. W. Hansing 



.1875 

Indian Creek, Disc. 
I. J. Harper ' 1889 

JoNESBORO,, Illinois, Disc. 

Ebenezer Class 

1. F. Theiss 

Kendallville Station 

1. Geo. Diegel 

2. Wm. Ackerman 1S7() 

3. E. B. Conklin 18S8 

Lake Bruce Circuit 

1. J. M. Rogers 1891 

-2. A. F. Wiesjahn 1890 

River Bank 

1. H. Prechtel 1872 

2. U. H. Carev 1894 

3. E. E. Werner 1898 

Lake Creek, Illinois, Disc. 

1. Casper Doehring 188.5 

Lakeville Mission 

Tabor Class 

1. Ira Steele 

Lancaster 

1. I. H. Griesomer 1889 

-2. R. C. Wise 1909 

LarwilLj Disc. 

1. L. F. Coverdale 1876 

Linn (Jrove Circuit 

Lima Class 

1. Dr. C. C. Baumgartner.1870 

2. E. H. Baumgartner ..1910 

3. E. E. Roberts 1915 

Vera Cruz Cla.'ss 

1. Jacob Sutter 1874 

2. S. H. Bamngartner ...1887 

Salem Class 

1. John Fox 1853 

2. Fr. Geisel 1855 

3. Ed. Habbegger 1915 



Louisville Station 

1. Fr. Maurer 1809 

2. Geo. Roederer 1874 

3. John Bruckert 1875 

4. Geo. Hallwaehs 1885 

5. F. C. Stierli 

(i. G. A. Stierli 1S99 

7. J. J. Maier 1904 

8. Irvin Roederer 1911 

Louisville, Trinity Mission 

1. Rob. Tiersch 1893 

2. J. L. Buyer 1895 

Markel Circuit 

1. W. H. Mvgrant 1882 

2. E. Hauser 1909 

Marshall Circuit 

1. Geo. Schmoll 1801 

2. John Kaufman 1804 

3. N. F. Platz 1874 

Biff Creek CUfis 

1. M. F. Finkbeiner 1859 

2. John Mundorf 1884 

3. Ben. Buehler 1899 

Mishawaka Circuit 

1. Mich. Zinimer 1855 

2. A. A. Knepper 1905 

3. Irvin Spencer 1900 

Coal Bush Class 

1. L. J. Ehrhardt 1888 

2. U. G. Gillraan 1907 

MississiNAWA, Disc. 

1 . J. Schaniber 1874 

2. S. Hofferbert 1888 

Schwartz Class 
1. J. C. Schuh 1805 

Mt. Carmel Station 
1. B. A. Mayer 1914 

MizPAH, South Bend 

1. N. F. Platz 1895 

2. Edw. Greiner 1900 

Nappanee Mission 
1. C. 1). Ringgenberg ...1S97 

Nappanee Circuit 
Ilcpton Class 

1. Peter Burgener 1848 

2. Phil. Haney 1914 

Island Class 

1. W. Pinkerton 1878 

2. Lloyd Haney 1911 

Jerusalem Class 
1. John Stover 

New Paris Circuit 
Harrison Center Class 

1. S. H. Pontius 1888 

2. B. F. Fehnell 1887 

North Webster Circuit 

1. J. F. Bockman 1871 

2. F. L. Snvdcr 1887 

3. F. W. llart 1888 

4. B. F. Snyder 1886 

Olnkv Station 

1. Cl'.r. Heim 1864 

2. Fred Lanner 1866 

3. Ben. Koenig 1896 

385 



(Inind I'rairie, Disc. 
.laciih Grueneisen ....1861 

I'liiLLiPSBURG Circuit 
Vaiidalia Class, Disc. 

J. M. Kronniiller Is53 

ir-,// Creek Class, Disc. 

F. liohlander ls73 

Wares Chapel 
C. Sehlotterbaek I'llo 

Portland Mission 

Jolni Rees ^ s8S 

W. II. Stowell looi) 

E. D. Haley 1912 

Portland Circuit 
Bear Creek Class 

J. W. Metzner 1891 

Bethel Class 

Phil. Orth 1883 

Laf. Orth 1894 

North CoriHlnu, Disc. 
David Black 1879 

RiCHiMOND, Disc. 
Wui. Koenig 1869 

RiDGEViLLE Circuit 
Emmettsvillc Class 

J. E. Young 

J. J. Wise 1893 

1). <). Wise 1905 

Rockport Mission 

Mel. Maver 1855 

C. P. Maas 1902 

Zoar Class 

('has. R. Koch 1873 

W. II. Freshley 1900 

Royal Center 
Common Center Class 

, D. R. Heil 1901 

, J. M. Kistler 1912 

Lucerne Class, Disc. 
. Levi Newman 1893 

Bell Center, Disc. 
. W. Bernethy 1896 

Hoiiai Center Class 

. Allen l)e Witt 1915 

. R. llandsehu 1915 

Salf.m, Fulton Co.^ Disc. 

. Jolm Kiplinger 1856 

. E. L. Kiplinger 1856 

. Sol. Wilderinuth 1859 

. S. Kiplinger 1861 

. Wni. Wilderinuth 1869 

South Bend, German 
. Geo. W. Freehafer ...1871 

. C. C. Beyrer 1873 

. .\ug. Iwan 1876 

. E. J. Nitsche 1881 

. Louis Neitzel 1882 

San Pierre Circuit 
San Pierre Class 

. J. L. Buver. Jr 1911 

. Jac. Arndt 1915 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Bethlehem Class 

1. Wm. Lueder 1869 

2. F. C. Wacknitz 1913 

Wanatah Class 
1. Carl Kalwitz 1871 

Scott CmcmT 
Grand Victory Class 

1. Geo. A. Hertel 1859 

St. Paul Class 
1. W. H. Reihle 1894 

Stracuse Mission 

1. Lloyd Launer 1914 

Ehenezer Class 
1. Moses Beyrer 

Ott's Class, Disc. 
1. John Rookstool 1853 

Terre Haute 

1. And. N. Fo.x 1888 

2. John Sturtz 1893 

Urbana Station 

1. D. D. Speicher 1885 

2. C. D. Wendall 1891 

3. Geo. E. Speicher 1891 

4. Peter S. Speicher 1892 

5. Chas. E. Geist 1904 

6. J. Louis Speicher 1908 

7. Geo. Pullman 1910 

8. Earl Snyder 1910 

Van Wert Mission 

1. J. O. Mosier 1895 

2. Jac. Bohyer 1897 

Wabash 

1. F. Rausch 1884 

2. F. F. McClure 1899 

3. C. W. Schlemmer ...•.190. 

4. J. W. Thomas 1915 

Wabash Circuit 

Zion Cla^s 

1. Ira Dawes 1908 

Wakarusa, Disc. 

1. D. H. Hoover 1885 

2. C. A. Wright 1908 

Warsaw, Disc. 
1. H. Strickler 1848 

Waterloo Circuit 
County Line Class 

1. Geo. Fredrick 1875 

Pleasant Hill 

1. H. H. Reinoehl 1889 

West Salem 

1. C. F. Mathias 1861 

2. C. Harms 1895 

3. O. L. Markinan 1895 

Wolcottville Circuit 
1. A. O. Raber 1878 



Entered Licensed 

Indiana by other 

Conference Conferences 

From Ohio Conference 

1843 A. Nicolai 1843 

1843 Chr. Glaus 1843 

1845 J. Trometer 1845 

1849 Peter Goetz 

These came to Hlinois Con- 
ference before organization of 
Indiana Conference: 

1853 Jacob Fisher 

1853 Sam. Miesse 1828 

1856 A. B. Schafer 1830 

1856 L. Schuerman 1850 

1856 M. Alspach 1855 

1856 M. Hoehn 

1856 Geo. Klocpfer 1841 

1858 Phil. Scliwartz 1846 

1859 Rub. Riegel 1846 

1860 Phil. Schwille 

1864 B. Hoffman 

1864 J. Rosenberg 

1865 Peter AViest 

1870 C. Tramer 1856 

1898 V'm. Engle 

1900 W. H. Brightmire .1883 

Illinois Conference 

1852 B. Uphaus 1848 

1852 B. Ruli 1852 

1852 F. Schuerman 1850 

1852 G. Franzen 1850 

These were licensed in the Il- 
linois Conference : 

1853 G. G. Platz 1844 

1856 Phil. Bretsch 

1873 C. F. Hansing 

1896 Thom. Finkheiner 

1897 J. H. Breish 

1902 C. D. Rarer 

1899 E. J. Oliver 1899 

Iowa Conference 

1867 Jacob Keiper 1849 

KAN.SAS Conference 

1865 Phil. Porr 1850 

1873 John Beck 1864 

1873 Sol. Shoof 

1911 C. H. Hartnian 

Pittsburg Conference 

1886 S. B. Kring 1850 

1912 W. J. Weyant 

Michigan Conference 

1868 Rub. Riegel again.. 1846 

1870 F. F. Mever 

1873 M. Speck 1860 

1891 J. M. Hang 1857 

Ed. Evans was licensed by the 
Indiana Conference in 1859. He 
was from Compton, Michigan. 

East Pennsylvania Conference 

1855 Chr. Wessling 1855 

1863 II. L. Fisher 1857 

Germany Conference 
1885 H. Weisshaar 



Entered 
Indiana 
Conference 



Licensed 

by other 

Conferences 



Switzerland Conference 
1872 Jac. Schmidle 



Japan Mission 

1891 Kichinosukee Kaneko ... 
1S90 Wakatubo Masutura 

These were merely licensed as 
Japan Conference was not yet 
organized. 

United Brethren Church 

1852 M. W. Steffev 1849- 

1852 Jos. Fisher 184& 

These two were first members 
of the Illinois Conference until 
the Indiana Conference was or- 
ganized. 

1865 Chr. Ade 

1880 J. W. Kemmerling.lSSa 

1886 T. Carroll 1854 

1896 C. D. Rarey 1895. 

Methodist Episcopal Church 

] 862 M. Koehl 

1875 H. Lvons 1875- 

1880 D. Martz 1880 

1888 S. Hofferbert 1888. 

1909 J. S. Young 

1910 G. A. Weisshaar 

Methodist Protestant Church 
C. F. Mohr 

Old Mennonite Church 
1903 Frank Hartman 

Apostolic Holiness Church 

1909 Ambrose B. Aegerter.... 
] 010 Wm. Ma.xwen 

These names could not be 
classified from lack of informa- 
tion. Dates show when they 
were licensed bj' the Indiana^ 
Conference : 

1855 Carl Heiden 

1857 Josh. Paulin 

1859 Sol. Blaser 

1864 A. Parker 

1864 G. Kuttler 

1864 Chr. Braun 

1865 Aug. Scholz 

1865 Eli Grim 

1867 Wm. Honstadt 

1868 Clir. Harte 

1869 Jasper Atkinson 

1870 Levi Grim 

1871 Jac. Young 

1871 Jac. Ressler 

1873 J. Reiner 

1876 Jac. Kolmer 

1876 L. T. Coverdale 

1879 G. W. Bryson 

1884 C. Benncr 

1896 Harrv Smith 

1897 T. M. Birdsell - 



386 



RECEIVED AND LICENSED ON PROBATION SINCE 1852 

Received and Licensed as Preachers on Probation 

since 1852. 

Explanation : — In the earlj' part of the Conference, as was customary in the Evangelical Associa- 
tion, tor the Quarterly Conference, as well as the Annual Conferences to issue licences to applicants as 
preachers on probation. When such as had received Quarterly Conference licenses, came to Confer- 
ence for work, they were simply received into the itinerancy on probation. This accounts for records 
of some who were received into the itinerancy, without saying that they received license as preachers 
on probation. Now Quarterly Conferences endorse class recommendations to preach, and can examine 
applicants on the Disciplinary questions. And only such as liave been advanced to deacon's orders 
and enter the Superannuation Fund can now be received into the itinerancy. — Historian. 

1853 — Henry Strickler, John Fox, John Ruckstuhl, Wm. Bockman 

and J. M. Kronmiller. 
1854— None. 
1855 — Carl Heiden, Fr. Geisel, Wm. Wesseler, Melchior Mayer and 

Chr. Wessling. 
1856 — Elias L. Kiplinger, John Kiplinger, David Garl, Wm. Her- 

tel and Michael Krueger. 
1857 — Josh. Paulin, Con. Kohlmeier, Chr. Ude. 
1858 — John Hoffman and Mathias Klaiber. 
1859— Peter Roth, J. Mich. Comer, Edw. Evans, Geo. A. Hertel, 

Sol. Blasser. 
1860 — Frederick Hoffman and Martin Speck. 
1861 — Sam. Kiplinger, Jacob Krumeisen, Chr. Mathias, Geo. 

Schmoll, Dan. J. Pontius, Sam. Plantz, Henry Maier. 
1862 — Peter Thornton, David S. Oakes, Adolph Dassel. 
1863— 
1864— A. Parker, G. Kuttler, Moses Beyer, Chr. Braun, Joh. M. 

Condo, John Beck, John Berger, Carl Schamo, John Kauf- 
man, Geo. Zimmer, Chr. Heim. 
1865 — Salem S. Albert, Aug. Scholz, Adam Hartzler, Eli Grim, J. 

Chr. Schuh. 
1866 — Phile. Miller, Eli Condo, Fr. Launer, Jacob Miller and Jos. 

A. Mayer. 
1867— Wm. Honstadt, Geo. W. Wales, Henry Funk, Jac. K. Troyer. 
1868 — James Wales, Chr. Harte, Aaron Scheidler, And. Troyer, 

Enos R. Troyer. 
1869 — Wm. Koenig, Eli T. Hochstetler, Wm. Lueder, Jasper L. 

Atkinson, Wash. Knoblauch, Wm. Wildermuth, Jac. Dreis- 

bach, Fr. Maurer, S. S. Condo. 
1870 — Levi Grimm, Hiram E. Overmeyer, Wm. G. Braeckly, Cleo- 

phas C. Baumgartner. 

387 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1871 — John Abrams, Geo. W. Freehafer, John F, Bockman, Adam 

R. Schafer, Jac. Young, Carl Kalwitz, Henry Schleucher, 

Chr. Stockhowe and Jac, Ressler. 
1872 — Jac. Mode, C. F. Brauer, Geo. Berstecher, Henry Prechtel, 

Jac. Himtsinger, Aug, Geist, B, F, Dili and D, Light, 
1873— John Stover, Sol, Shoop, J. W. Loop, W. H. Jones, Earnst 

Bohlander, C. C, Beyrer, Ed, D, Einsel, 
1874 — J, Reiner, Nim, J, Platz, Geo. Roederer, J. Fritz, Jac. Sut- 
ter, J. Schamber and J, M. Dustman. 
1875 — Chr. Stier, Carl F. W. Hansing, Jac. Kolmer, Geo. Fredrick, 

Henry Lyons and John Bruckert. 
1876 — Wm. Ackeiman, L. T. Coverdale, J. H. Stedcke, Aug, Iwan. 
1877— Israel B. Fisher, 
1878— Wes, Pinkerton, A, O, Raber, 
1879 — J, E, Moyer, G, W, Bryson, David Black and Lawrence 

Stock, 
1880 — Joh. E. Smith, David Martz and J. W, Kemmerling. 
1881— Edw. J, Nitsche, John H, Evans. 
1882 — Louis Neitzle, Wm. H. Mj^grant and Rob. Rainey. 
1883— Dan. E. Hoover, Dan. F. Fox, Wm. Wiedenheft, Phil. A. 

Orth, Jos. E. Stoops, Wm. H. Brightmeier and Lorenzo 

S. Fisher. 
1884 — Geo. B. Holdeman, Fred. Rausch, John H. Schnitz and C. 

Benner. 
1885 — Dan. D. Speicher, Emil E. Meyers, G. Streicher. 
1886- Henry E. Neff, Henry E. Meyers, 
1887 — Sam'l H. Baumgartner, Albert S. Fisher, Geo. C. Steininger, 

C. M. Pierce, Monroe L. Scheidler, Dan. D. Spangler, Fred. 

L. Snyder, B. F. Fahnel, B. Webb. 
1888 — Phil. Buehler, John Rees, Fred. E. Zechiel, Leo, J, Ehrhardt, 

Harry W. Fisher, W. S, Tracy, Fred. W. Hart, Silas H. Pon- 
tius, E. B. Conklin and Sam. Hofferbert. 
1889 — Henry H. Reinoehl, D. Jolly and J, Harper, 
1890 — John A. Tiedt, Wakatubo Masutura, a Japanese, licensed 

by our Conference before Japan Conference was organized. 
1891 — Geo, E. Speicher, John W. Metzner, Ed. B. Kern, Jesse M. 

Rogers, Chas. D. Wendall and a Japanese, Kichinosukee 

Kaneko, licensed for the same reason as the above. 
1892 — Chas. W. Spangler, R. F. Jamison, Peter S. Speicher, Sam'l 

E. Beverly. 
1893— Phil. L. Browns, W. S. Mills, Levi Newman, J. Stortz, Rob, 

Tiersch, Howard Steininger, Henry Gocker, J, J, Wise, Fred 

Reutepohler, 

388 



FORMATION SOUTH INDIANA CONF., REINCORPORATION 

1894— H. E. Thompson, Wm. E. Snyder, A. S. Elzy, Frank J. 

Stedcke, Wm. Reily, Laf. L. Orth, U. H. Carey, Sam I. 

Zechiel. 
1895— Dan E. Zechiel, Otto Markman, Noah F. Platz, Jos. L. 

Buyer, John W. Feller, John O. Hosier and Chas. Harms. 
1896— Chr. H. Burgener, D. D. Suit, W. Bernethy, Alb. Wiesjahn, 

Geo. F. Zuber, Ben E. Koenig, Martin W. Sunderman, 

Harry Smith and Sam. C. Cramer. 
1897— Aith. E. Weyrick, Roy E. Garl, Gust. B. Kimmel, Chr. D. 

Ringgenberg, Jac. Bohyer, Ans. Van Camp and F. M. Bird- 
sell 
1898— Emil E. Werner, Ed. C. Ewald and Chas. McConnehey. 
1899— Frank F. McClure, Benj. Buehler, Frank S. Erne, Ben. 

Reutepoehler, Ed. J. Oliver, Gust. A. Stierle. 
1900 — Edwin Q. Laudeman, Edw. Greiner and Wm. H. Freshley. 
1901 — Dan. R. Heil, Frank B. Walmer and Everet Jones. 
1902— Geo. L. Lutman and Chas. P. Maas. 
1903 — John M. Lantz, Daniel A. Kaley and Frank Hartman. 
1904 — Sch. D. Rainey, J. J. Meyer, Elmer W. Praetorius and Chas, 

E. Geist. 
1905 — Alb. A. Knepper, Edw. E. Miller, Ira Steele and David 0. 

Wise. 
1906— Irvin G. Spencer, Sim. J. Kroft, Lloyd E. Smith and Carl A. 

Hirschman, 
1907— Clyde E. Boyer, U. G. Oilman and Geo. D. Eastes. 
1908 — Ira C. Dawes, J. Lewis Speicher, Chas. A. Wright and 

Adolph D. Kroft. 
1909 — Earnst R. Roop, W. A. Stowell, Chancy D. Overmeyer, 

Earnst Hauser, Rudolph C. Wise, Amb. B. Aegerter and 

M. L. Strahler. 
1910 — Mentor O. Herman, Edw. H. Baumgartner, Wm. Maxwell, 

Geo. Pullman, Chr. Schlotterbeck, Earl Snyder and E. W. 

Schmalzried. 
1911 — Irvin G. Roederer, Geo. S. Lozier, Jos. L. Buyer, Jr., Lloyd 

Haney, Lloyd Foulke. 
1912— Edw. D. Haley and James Kistler. 

1913— Wm. H. Flurkey, Fred. C. Wachnitz and D. P. Claypool. 
1914 — Floj'd W. Launer, Ora O. Lozier, Phil. Haney, Harry L. 

Meyer, Herb. E. Eberhart, Walter R. Kimmel, Bern. A. 

Mayer. 
1915— E. E. Roberts, J. W. Thomas, Carl Berger, R. W. Hand- 

schu, Allen DeWitt, Jacob Aindt. 

389 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 



Received from other Conferences and Churches. 

1853, G. G. Platz, 111. Conf. ; Sam'l Miesse, Ohio Conf. (local) ; 
Phil. Bretsch. 1856, Geo. Kloepfer, Ohio Conf. 1858, Phil. 
Schwartz, Ohio Conf. 1859, Reuben Riegel and Sam. K. Miesse, 
Ohio Conf. 1860, Phil. Schwille, Ohio Conf. 1864, Bath. Hoffman 
and J. J. Rosenbergei, Ohio Conf. 1865, Chr. Ade, of the U. B. 
Church ; Peter Wiest, Ohio Conf. ; Phil. Porr, Kansas Conf. 1867, 
Jacob Keiper, Iowa Conf. 1870, C. Tramer, Ohio Conf. 1872, H. 
Price. Jac. Schmidle, Switzerland Conf. 1873, John Beck, Kansas 
Conf. ; Martin Speck, Michigan Conf. ; Chas. F. Hansing, 111. Conf. 
1875, M. Koehl, M. E. Church. 1880, F. F. Meyer, Mich. Conf. 
1885, H, Weishaar, Germany Conf. Reuben Riegel, Mich. Conf. 
Wm. Ackerman, Oregon Conf. 1886, Tim Carroll, U. B. Church; 
S. B. Kring, Pitts. Conf. 1887, B. F. Snyder, Dak. Conf. 1891, 
J. M. Haug, Mich. Conf. 1893, the So. Ind. Conf. ministers : W. G. 
Braeckly, E. Bohlander, G. M. Hallwachs, J. Kaufman, Wm. Koe- 
nig, W. L. Luehring, J. Mundorf, E. J. Nitsche, N. J. Platz, H. 
Schleucher, J. H. Schnitz, Fr. Schweitzer, H. Weishaar, M. F. 
Finkbeiner, I. Griesemer, Ger. Koch, B. Schuermeier, F. Stierle, 
Rob. Tiersch; as locals, Chr. Heim, J. M. Kronmiller, J. A. Maier, 
G. G. Platz, M, Speck, Wm. Wesseler, Fr. Wiethaup, Fr. Dauner, 
C. Kohlmeier, Philemon Miller, J. Miller, local from M. E.'s. 1895, 
J. E. Stoops, Ore, Conf. ; J. M, Smith, C. S. and John Jupin from 
the M. E. Church. 1896, C. D. Wendall, Des Moines Conf. ; Thom. 
Finkbeiner of the 111. Conf. ; C. D. Rarey from the U. B. Church. 
1898, Wm. Engel of the Ohio Conf. (local) ; J. W. Lowle from the 
M. E.'s (local) ; J. H. Breish from the 111. Conf. ; J. H. Rilling from 
Wisconsin Conf. 1899, I. B. and L. S. Fisher from Oregon Conf.; 
A. Riemenschneider from 111. Conf. (local). 1900, J. Trythall of 
the U. B. Church (local) ; W. H. Brightmire from the Ohio Conf. 
(local elder). 1901, C. A. Row, of the Refoimed Church (local 
elder). 1903, D. A. Kaley and E. C. Bieri (local prob.) from 
M. E. Church; H. Hardy of Church of God (local deacon), J. H. 
Heldt of the M. E. Church (local deacon). 1904, E. R. Troyer of 
111. Conf. (local elder) ; A. R. Stull of the 111. Conf. (prob.). 1905, 
1906, 1907, 1908, F. C. Stierle of the 111. Conf. (local elder). 1909, 
C. W. Schlemer of U. B. Church ; G. A. Weishaar of the Ger. M. E. 
Church (local probationers) ; A.B.Aegerter of the Apostolic Church 
as applicant for license. 1910, E. B. Jones of the Apostolic Holi- 

390 



ORDAINED AS DEACONS SINCE 1852 

ness Union as preacher on probation ; T. J, Russell of the Free 
Methodist Church (local elder) and J. W. Carter of the Platte 
River Conf. 1911, L. J. Ehrhart of the Texas Conf . ; C. H. Hart- 
man of Kansas Conf. 1912, W. I. Weyant of the Pittsb. Conf.; 
Byron G. Smith of the Free Methodist Church; Jos. Whinery of 
the Friends Church (local prob.) ; S. Hofferbert's name was re- 
stored to the list of local elders. 1913, D. P. Claypool of the Naza- 
rcne Church, as probationer; W. S. Mills of Ohio Conf., local 
elder; R. W. Loose of the 111. Conf. as deacon. 1914, C. E. Boyer 
from Presbyterian Church. 



Ordained as Deacons since 1852. 

1852, Peter Burgener, Jos. Fisher. 1853, Ger. Franzen. 1854, 
Mich. W. Steffey, Ber. Ruh. 1855, Henry Strickler, Wm. Bockman, 
John Fox, John M. Kronmiller. 1856, Geo. Koch. 1857, Mich. 
Alspauch, Fr. Geisel, Mel. Mayer, Chr. Wessling Wm. Wesseler, 
Jac. Trometer. 1858, Mich. Krueger. 1859, Con. Kohlmeier, Chr. 
Ude, Josh. Paulin, Dan. Bartholomew, Eli L. Kiplinger, John Rie- 
gel. 1860, John Hoffman, Sam. K. Miesse, Math. Klaiber. 1861, 
Edw. Evans, John M. Gomer, Geo. A. Hertel, Peter Roth. 

1862, Martin Speck, John Kiplinger. 1863, Geo. Schmoll, 
Henry L. Fisher. 1864, David S. Oakes, Chr. Heim, Fr. Frillman. 

1865, John Kaufman, Geo. Zimmer, Mich. Zimmer, Carl Schamo. 

1866, John Berger, A. Parker, Sam. Kiplinger, Chr. F. Mathias, 
Chr. Ade. 1867, Chr. C. Schuh, Ad. Hartzler, Salem S. Albert, 
Dan. J, Pontius. 1868, Fr. Launer, Jac. Miller, Jos. A. Mayer, 
Eli Condo, J. K. Troyer. 1869, Geo. W. Wales, And. Troyer. 1870, 
James Wales. 1871, Jac. Maurer, S. S. Condo, Wm. Lueder, Wm. 
Koenig. 

1872, Wm. Wildermuth, Enos R. Troyer, Eli Hochstetler, 
Hiram E. Oveimeyer, Moses Beyers, Sam. Planz. 1873, Joh. F. 
Bockman, Herman Schleucher, Chr. Stockhowe, John C. Young, 
Wm. Braeckly, H. Funk, 1874, Geo. W. Freehafer, Aug. Geist, 
E. D. Einsel, Fr. Brauer, Chas. C. Beyrer, Ad. R. Schafer, Aaron 
V. Scheidler. 1875, Geo. Berstecher. 1876, Nim. J. Platz, Jac. 
Mode, B. F. Dill, Cleophas C. Baumgartner. 1877, Geo. Roederer, 
John Bruckert. 1878, J. M. Dustman. 1879, J. Ben. Fisher, Henry 
Prechtel, Aug. Iwan, Jac. Huntsinger. 1880, Wm. Ackerman, A. 
O. Raber, J. Fritz. 1881, Henry Arlen, D. Martz. 

1882. none. 1883, J. E. Smith. 1884, none. 1885, J. E. Stoops, 
Wm. H. Brightmire, Rob. Rainey, C. F. W. Hansing, Lon. S. 

391 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

Fisher. 1886, Geo. B. Holdeman, Phil. A. Orth, Fred Raiisch. 
1887, Dan. D. Speicher. 1888, John H. Evans, Wm. H. Mygrant, 
Emil E. Meyers, Alb. S. Fisher, H. E. Neff. 1889, S. H. Baum- 
gartner, Monr. L. Scheidler, Henry E. Meyers. 1890, John Rees, 
Sam. Hofferbert, Fred E. Zechiel, Fred L. Snyder, Dan. D. Spangler.. 
1891, B. Frank Snyder, Phil. Buehler, Silas H. Pontius. 

1892, John A. Tiedt, Henry H. Reinoehl. 1893, Ishmael H. 
Griesemer, Leo. J. Ehrhardt, John W. Metzner, Jesse M. Rogers. 

1894, Frank R. Jamison, W. S. Tracy, Chas. W. Spangier, Benja- 
min Schuermeier, Geo. F. Winter, Chas. M. Pierce, R. J. Harper. 

1895, Phil. L. Browns, Rob. Tiersch, Howard H. Steininger, Henry 
Gocker, Levi Newman. 1896, Sam. I. Zechiel, Jacob J. Wise, Wm. 

E. Snyder, Dan. B. Koenig. 1897, Abr. B. Haist, Chas. Harms, J. 
L. Buyer, C. D. Rarey, Dan. E. Zechiel, Carl Kalwitz. 1898, James 
H. Rilling, Otto L. Markman, John W. Feller. 1899, John 0. 
Mosier, Sam. S. Cramer. 1900, Chas. McConnehey, Frank J. 
Stedcke. 1901, Emil Werner, Gus. B. Kimmel, Alf. F. Wiesjahn, 
Ben. E. Koenig, Elmer J. Oliver, Martin W. Sunderman. 

1902, Frank S. Erne, Wm. H. Freshley, Chr. H. Burgener, 
Edw. E. Greiner. 1903, Edw. C. Ewald, Frank B. Walmer, Frank 

F. McClure, Edw, Q. Laudeman. 1904, Arth. E. Weyrick, Fred. 
Reutepoehler. 1905, John M. Lantz, Chas. P. Maas, Peter S. 
Speicher. 1906, Daniel A. Kaley. 1907, G. Adolph Stierli, Schuyler 
D. Rainey, Dan. R. Heil, Dav. O. Wise, Edw. E. Miller, Geo. C. 
Lutman, Alf. A. Knepper. 1908, Chas. E. Geist, Elmer W. Prae- 
torius, Lloyd E. Smith, Geo. F. Zuber. 1909, Clyde C. Boyer, Geo. 
D. Eastes, Alb. W. Feller. 1910, C. A. Wright, Adolph D. Kroft, 
Ira C. Steele, J. Lewis Speicher. 1911, Simon J. Kroft, Roy. E. 
Garl, Gus A. Weishaar, Ambros B. Aegerter, E. B. Jones, Carl A. 
Hirschman, E. R. Roop. 

1912, Chas. W. Schlemmer, Edw. H. Baumgartner. 1913, Jos. 
L. Buyer, Jr. 1914, Geo. Pullman, Geo. S. Lozier, James M. Kistler. 
1915, I, Roederer, F. C. Wachnitz, M. 0. Herman, L. Haney. 



Ordained as Elders since 1852. 

1852, Bernh. Uphaus. 1853, Jacob Keiper. 1854, Jos. Fisher, 
Peter Burgener. 1855, 1856, Mich. W. Steffey. 1857, Wm. Bock- 
man, John Fox, John M. Kronmiller. 1858, Bernh. Ruh. 1859, 
Mich. Alspauch, Fr. Geisel, Chr. Wessling, Wm. Wesseler, Mel. 
Mayer, Jac. Trometer, Geo. Kloepfer. 1860, Mich. Krueger. 1861,, 
Chr. Ude, Dan. Bartholomew. 

392 



ORDAINED AS ELDERS SINCE 1852 

1862, Math. Klaiber, John Hoffman, Josh. Paulin, Elias L. 
Kiplinger. 1863, Edw. Evans, John M. Gomer, Peter Roth. 
1864, Geo. A. Hertel. 1865, Henry L. Fisher. 1866, Geo. Schmoll, 
Chr. Heim, David S. Oakes. 1867, John Kaufman. 1868, Chr. F. 
Mathias, Carl Schamo, John Berger, Sam. Kiplinger. 1869, Ad. 
Hartzler, Salem S. Albeit, A. Parker, Dan. J. Pontius, Chr. Ade. 
1870, Fr. Launer, Jac. Miller, Jos. A. Mayer, Chr. C. Schuh. 1871, 
J. K. Troyer. 

1872, James Wales. 1873, Wm. Koenig, Jac. Maurer, Sam. S. 
Condo. 1874, Hiram E. Overmeyer, Eli T. Hochstetler, Enos R. 
Troyer. 1875, Wm. G. Braeckly, J. C. Young, C. F. Hansing, C. 
Stockhowe. 1876, E. D. Einsel, Geo. W. Freehafer, Aug. Geist, Ad. 
R. Schafer, Chas. C. Beyrer, A. Troyer. 1877, John F. Bockman. 
1878, B. F. Dill, Cloph. C. Baumgartner. 1879, John Bruckert, 
Geo. Roederer. 1880, J. M. Dustman. 1881, I. Ben. Fisher, Aug. 
Iwan, H. Prechtel, Wm. Wildermuth. 

1882, Wm. Ackerman, A. 0. Raber. 1883, D. Martz, Henry 
Arlen. 1884, 1885, John E. Smith. 1886, 1887, Lorenzo S. Fisher, 
Jos. E. Stoops, Rob. Rainey, Carl F. W. Hansing, Wm. Brightmire. 
1888, Phil. Orth. 1889, Geo. B. Holdeman, Dan'l D. Speicher, Fred 
Rausch. 1890, Wm. Mygrant, Alb. S. Fisher, Henry E. Neff. 1891, 
Sam'l H. Baumgartner, Monroe L. Scheidler, Emil E. Meyers. 1892, 
John H. Evans, Fred E. Zechiel, Sam. Hofferbeit, Dan. D. Spangler, 
John Rees. 1893, Phil. Buehler, Silas H. Pontius. 1894, John A. 
Tiedt, Henry H. Reinoehl. 1895, Leo. J. Ehrhardt, Ismael H. 
Giiesemer, John W. Metzner, Jesse M. Rogers. 1896, R. F. Jami- 
son, Benjamin Schuermeier, Chas. W, Spangler, Chas. M. Pierce. 
1897, Thom. Finkbeiner, Phil. L. Browns. 1898, Sam. I. Zechiel, 
Dan. B. Koenig, Wm. E. Snyder, Henry Cocker, J. M. Smith. 1899, 
C. D. Rarey, Abr. B. Haist, Dan. E. Zechiel, Jos. L. Buyer. 1900, 
Chr. Harms, Otto L. Markman. 1901, John 0. Mosier, Sam C. 
Cramer, James H. Rilling, Jacob J. Wise. 

1902, John W. Feller, Levi Newman. 1903, Martin M. Sun- 
derman, Gus. B. Kimmel, Ben. E. Koenig. 1904, Chr. H. Burgener, 
Wm. H. Freshley, Frank S. Erne, Chas. McConnehey. 1905, Edw. 
E. Greiner, Chr. D. Ringgenberg, Frank B. Walmer, Frank Hart- 
man, Frank F. McClure, Edw. C. Ewald. 1906, 1907, W. S. Tracy, 
H. Cocker. 1908, Edw. Q. Laudeman, Chas. P. Maas, John M. 
Lantz. 1909, Alf. A. Knepper, Edw. E. Miller, David O. Wise, 
Fred Reutepoehler, D. Alfred Kaley. 1910, E. W. Praetorius, F. 
Zuber, Chas. E. Geist, Lloyd E. Smith. 1911, Clyde E. Boyer, 
Frank J. Stedcke, Dan. R. Heil. 

393 



INDIANA CONFERENCE 

1912, C. A. Wright, John H. Heldt. 1913, Carl A. Hirschman, 
Ambros B. Aegerter, Gus A. Weishaar, Alb. W. Feller, Adolph D. 
Kroft, E. B. Jones. 1914, E. R. Roop. 1915, R. W. Loose. 



Credentials Voted Ministers to other Conferences. 

1857, to S. Dickover and L. Schuerman to 111. Conference. 
1862, to B. Ruh to the 111. Conf. 1865, to J. Rosenberg to Ohio 
Conf. 1867, to Peter Wiest to Ohio Conf. 1870, to D. J. Pontius 
to Iowa Conf.; Chr. Ade to Mich. Conf.; to E. E. Condo to 111. 
Conf. 1874, to Jacob Rcssler; Jacob Keiper to the 111. Conf. and 
And. Parker. 1875, to R. Riegel to Mich. Conf.; to H. E. Over- 
meyer, but replaced it in 1876; Chr. Glaus to the Ohio Conf., but 
died before it could be deposited in this Conf. 1876, to Edw. Evans 
and J. Schmidli to the Kans. Conf. ; to S. S. Condo to the Ohio 
Conf. 1879, to E. D. Einsel, to Platte River Conf., and Jacob 
Maurer to the Oregon Conf. 1880, to B. F. Dill to Mich. Conf. 
1884, to Fr. Launer to Oregon Conf. 1885, to E. L. Kiplinger to 
the Platte River Conf. ; Wm. Koenig to the So. Ind. Conf. 1886, to 
Geo. Streicher to Neb. Conf. and D. E. Hoover to Kans. Conf. 
1887, to B. F. Fahnel to Kans. Conf. and L. S. Fisher by appoint- 
ment of the Board of Missions to the Oregon Conf. 1888, to I. B. 
Fisher to the Oregon Conf., and Aug. Iwan to the Texas Conf. by 
appointment of the Board of Missions. 1889, to John Berger to 
the Cal. Conf. 1890, to J. E. Stoops, by Board of Missions to Ore- 
gon Conf.; to H. E. Meyers to the Kans. Conf.; to H. Weishaar 
to the So. Ind. Conf., and to M. Hoehn to the 111. Conf. 1891, to 
A. 0. Raber to the Presbyterian Church. 1892, C. C. Beyrer and 
H. E. Neff to the Presbyterian Church. 1893, to D. J. Pontius 
to the Texas Conf.; to J. C. Young; H. Alien to the Presbyterian 
Church. 1894, to W. H. Brightmire and W. S. Mills to the Ohio 
Conf. ; G. M. Hallwachs to the 111. Conf. 1895, to F. C. Stierle to 
111. Conf. ; B. F. Snyder to the M. E. Church. 1896, to R. Tiersch 
to the Erie Conf., and H. E. Thompson to the Ohio Conf. 1897, 
to C. S. Jupin to the M. E. Church. 1899, to C. D. Wendall to 
Des Moines Conf. ; to W. H. Engel to E. E. Meyers. 1900, F. E. 
Zcchiel to the Reformed Church, and W. E. Brightmire to the 
M. E. Church. 1901, to C. D. Rarey to Texas Conf., and Wm. 
Lueder. 1902, to J. M. Smith. 1903, R. F. Jamison to Ore. Conf. ; 
J. Harper and Benj. Buehler. 1904, to A. S. Elzey. 1905, J. E. 
Moyer and J. J. Maier, G. F. Spreng, Erie Conf.; J. Wales, to 

394 



CREDENTIALS VOTED TO OTHER CONFERENCES 

Mich. Conf . ; O. L. Markman to M. E. 1906, to E. E. Werner, M. E. 
1907, S. I. Zechiel to Kans. Conf. 1908, to L. J. Ehrhardt to Texas 
Conf. ; A. Riemenschneider to 111. Conf., and E. R. Baker to Ohio 
Conf. 1910, to S. J. Luehring to Cal. Conf. 1912, to H. Cocker 
to Wash. Conf., and C. D. Rarey again, to M. E. Church, Wash. ; 
M. W. Strahler to Presbyterian Church. 1913, to T. J. Russell to 
M. E. Church; to C. E. Boyer to Presbyterian Church. 1914, to 
Geo. D. Eastes to New Light Church. 1915, G. A. Stierle to Cal. 
Conf. ; F. C. Stierle, W. E. Weyrick, M. E. Church ; J. L. Speicher 
to the U. B. Church. 



Errata. 

Page 57 — to the list of Appointments after name of F. Brauer, 
"Wabash-1", should be added. 

Page 93 — 1st line under Wabash City, should read "Brauer" in- 
stead of "Launer". 

Page 118 — the second paragraph should begin "While Pastor of 
Wabash Circuit, he met with," 

Page 236 — fourth line from the bottom of page should read "he 
sang with the newly organized Conf. Quartette". 

Page 237 — first line, should begin, "get to sing with it, except at 
this first session". 

Page 97 — under Itinerant Deacons, item number 6, should be 
transferred to list of Local Deacons. 



395 



Princeton Theological Seminary Libraries 



1 1012 01198 7072 




■KmX: